Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal will promote Indian Premier League champions Deccan Chargers after she was made brand ambassador of the media group which owns the team.
The 20-year-old Hyderabadi signed a three-year deal with Deccan Chronicle at a glittering function in Hyderabad on Saturday.
"After cricket it is badminton that has landed such a big brand and It is a dream from me. It gives me a lot of encouragement and motivates me further to go and try to win the World Championship for my country," Saina said after signing the contract.
Asked what she thought of a badminton star endorsing cricket for the first time, Saina said, "It is good for the game. It shows that finally badminton has come of age and we are being recognised for our efforts."
"A lot of time many players go through financial crisis and if efforts like this are made, I feel more players can play freely and be motivated to play better," she added.
Saina said although she doesn't follow cricket much but Sachin Tendulkar remains her favourite and among the Deccan Chargers, it is captain of the side Adam Gilchrist.
Saina's coach Pullela Gopichand, who was also present on the occasion, said it is a big step forward for Indian badminton.
"We have a long association with Deccan chargers and so when this proposal come across, we thought it was a great opportunity for Saina. She has a busy schedule so may be she won't be able to be there all the time but when she has time, she will promote the team," Gopichand said.