Anyone who holds a significant position in badminton over the past twenty years from the continent possesses a medal from the Asian Junior Championships, an event highly valued by the Chinese.
Thus, when Tanvi Sharma and Vennala Kalagotla secured bronze medals in the most recent edition on Saturday in Solo, Indonesia, after being defeated by two Chinese players in the semi-finals, it reignited the momentum of women’s singles in Indian badminton- 13 years since PV Sindhu last claimed the title. Vennala, who comes from the same railway colony in Secunderabad and Sindhu did, shares a similar tall and rangy physique, standing at 5 feet 8 inches at the age of 17.
While Sharma has been making significant strides in the senior category, the Hyderabad players Vennala emerged as a surprise with her combination of exceptional reflexive defence and powerful smash. Although she could not overcome her Chinese opponent, Liu Si Ya, in the 21-15, 21-18 defeat, Vennala showcased her potential by saving three match points and demonstrating a surprisingly combative style of play this week.
Venala, who partnered with Anmol Kharb in doubles during her victory at the Krishna Khaitan event, is the daughter of a ticket collector for the Railways and is also a player of ball badminton. This team sport, which enjoys significant popularity in southern India and is immensely enjoyable to play, boasts some exceptionally talented athletes within the southern Railways teams. Vennala, along with her brother, was directed towards shuttle badminton, which has become a cultural staple in the sports clubs of Hyderabad. She began her journey at the age of 8 and later transitioned to the Pullela Gopichand Academy.
