Saina cruise in to second round with a facile win

Beijing, Aug 9 (UNI) Justifying her high world ranking, Saina Nehwal taught her Russian opponent Ella Karachkova lesson in the game as she thrashed her in straight games to cruise into the second round of the women's singles event of the Olympic badminton competition here today.

Displaying an awesome form, the national champion took just 27 minutes to knock out Karachkova 21-9, 21-8 in a one sided match to cruise into the second round where she will face Larysa Gryga of Ukraine.

It turned out to be virtual no contest as, Saina displayed her wares that had Ella in all sort of troubles and the Indian later said, she did not go full throttle because she wanted to try some other things today.

''I did not play my usual game and hit less smash. Instead, I was trying more drop shots. The first round match is always tough because you tend to make mistakes early but I'm happy that everything went according to the script,'' she said.

Asked about how has been her experience here so far, the Indian champion said, ''I think I adjusted fast to the court, conditions, breeze and atmosphere here. It was wonderful playing in front of such a vociferous crowd.'' The Hyderabadi girl also did not agree to a query that she had an easy draw.

''This is simply not correct. If I manage to clear the next round, I'll possibly face world number three player (Chen Wang of Hong Kong). So it's not an easy draw as some believe,'' she said.

Even that challenge, however, does not intimidate Saina who said she never felt any pressure.

''No question about getting nervy, that's simply not me. I have beaten senior and higher ranked players in the past and I know I'll give 100 per cent and there is no reason why I cannot do it here again,'' she added.

UNI HSB RKM RAI2000