She caught attention in 2019 when she won the All India senior ranking tournament and All India Junior Ranking tournament. In 2022 when she played her first BWF Super 500 tournament she beat ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal, and grabbed lime light. In National Games 2022, she reached finals and gave a tough ride to her opponent Aakarshi Kashyap in the second set and secured a silver for herself.
We spoke to Malvika Bansod, the Indian shuttler exclusively. Below are the excerpts.
Q. How did it feel to represent your state in National Games and clinching silver medal?
A. I felt very proud and happy to represent my state Maharashtra and win a Bronze for the team event and a silver in the individual event at the 36th National Games.
Q. Malvika you gave a good fight to Aakarshi Kashyap in the second and the deciding set. What sparked you that you showed a drastic comeback in the second set?
A. I had a great run till finals but as I had represented my team in the team event as well in both QF and SF ties, I was tired in the finals and couldn’t give my 100 percent. But I’m still proud of my performance.
Yes, I got into the flow of the game as the match progressed, and I had my chances in the second game, but hard luck prevailed.
Q. How are the preparations going on for the Asian games and Paris Olympics?
A. Preparations for the Asian Games and Paris Olympics are going on well, I have cracked into the top 50 of the world, being no. 41 at the moment, just behind Saina Nehwal and P.V. Sindhu. I hope to continue my rise the same way forward.
Q. How was the experience playing at National Games as your fellow sports personas had really some good things to say about the event?
A. This was my first National Games and I had a wonderful experience there in Surat. The 36th National Games were so well organized, so well planned. The entire staff was so well equipped, punctual and helpful. The stadiums and players lounges were always well stocked with necessary supplies required for players. I had a wonderful time in Gujarat and absolutely loved the vibe and the enthusiasm of the entire team there along with that of the young student audience!!
Q. How do you find Gujarat and Gujaratis?
A. Gujarat is absolutely a wonderful state, so well planned and Gujaratis are so hospitable.
