IBL Clash of the Titans: Saina admits facing pressure against Sindhu

In the biggest match of the Indian Badminton League, World No 4 Saina Nehwal did not disappoint.

But Nehwal admitted she was a "bit under pressure" while facing P V Sindhu for the first time in a match between Hyderabad Hotspots and Awadh Warriors.

The London Olympics bronze medalist, Saina notched up a straight-game victory over Sindhu in the women's singles competition to help Hyderabad secure a 3-2 victory over Warriors at the Siri Fort Sports Complex in New Delhi on Thursday.

"Actually, media hyped up our match so much otherwise we play each other everyday at the Pullela Gopichand academy. But since this match was so talked about, I felt a bit under pressure and it became a little tight in the beginning," said Saina after the match which she won 21-19, 21-8.

Asked what strategy she had adopted when Sindhu opened up a substantial lead in the first game, Saina said, "There was no strategy. You have to keep changing your tactics seeing how your opponent is playing. I just concentrated on playing my natural game and give my best."

Saina, however, denied that she became aggressive when she was lagging behind in the opening game.

"I always play aggressively. Initially, she played very well but you have to read your opponent's game quickly. You have to be just ready. It's not just about Sindhu but whosoever you are playing, and react accordingly. My focus was to be relaxed and play well," she said.

"Overall we gave our best. Today, I was lucky to have won," she added.

On the other hand P V Sindhu blamed her negative thoughts and defensive approach for defeat.

But the newly crowned World No 10 vowed not to repeat her mistakes when she clashes with her senior compatriot next time.

"Initially it was okay but Saina started attacking while it was 14-14. In the second game I became a bit negative and also got defensive. I think I should have played a little more faster and attacking game. I was thinking aloud, I made some judgement errors. She is a senior player and played very well," Sindhu, who won a bronze medal at the recent World Championship, said.

"I would not repeat this mistake again," she said.

Talking about her performance at the World Championships, Sindhu said it was a fantastic achievement.

"I didn't think I would get a medal but it is a fantastic feeling. Beating two Chinese was really great. All in all, I am very happy. My teammates really supported me," she said.

Sindhu, who today became world no. 10, said her aim was to break into top-10 by the end of this year but now that she has achieved it she would have to rethink about her next goal.