Praneeth wins his first Super Series title at Singapore Open

B Sai Praneeth triumphed at the Singapore Open this year as he earned his first Super Series title defeating his compatriot, K Shrikanth. It was the first time two Indians were playing in the final and the crowds were treated to a thrilling match. Praneeth had won  the Canada Open Grand Prix last year and reached the Syed Modi Grand Prix Gold final this year. The Super Series title had eluded him, but this year he was able to clinch it when he  outmaneuvered Srikanth 17-21, 21-17, 21-12 in the finals of the $350,000 event. After being victorious in the 54 minute clash, an overwhelmed Praneeth said that he was very happy about his win and praised the spectators for their huge support. Both Praneeth and Shrikanth were trainees of the Gopichand academy and knew each other's game very well. Praneeth was able to exploit his opponent's weakness and gave a tough fight to Shrikanth. Although Shrikanth overpowered Praneeth in the first game to take the lead, Praneeth made a fighting comeback to win the second game. In the decider, Praneeth carried the momentum and surged to a 7-3 lead and continued to trouble Srikanth with his array of strokes and better net-play. At break, Praneeth was far ahead with a sore of 11-5. In the end, a drop shot gave Praneeth a 19-12 lead and Srikanth handed him the match point when he hit wide. Praneeth made the most of it to clinch the series. Praneeth, who shot into limelight after winning the bronze medal at the World Junior Championships in 2010, has come a long way winning a number of titles and trouncing many accomplished shuttlers. This Super Series win is another feather in his cap.