Local stalwart Vaishnavi Bhale put up a brave fight against Saina Nehwal in the semifinals of the Senior National Badminton Champion ship being played at Guwahati. Vaishnavi playing Saina for the first time displayed no sign of nervousness. There were long rallies in both the games and Saina was made to struggle before gaining points from Vaishnavi. Saina won 21 15, 21 14.
Kiran V Makode, who is coaching Vaishnavi since childhood was very pleased to see her play against Saina.  “Vaishnavi lived up to the expectations. She gave very go fight to Saina and fought till the last. Today’s match will definitely boost her confidence a lot,†he said.
