PHOTOS: Smashing start for IBL in Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 17: Indian Badminton League (IBL) commenced in Delhi on August 14 (Wednesday) and after three matches over two days, the action shifts to Lucknow and Mumbai during the weekend.
The three matches so far have given indications on how tough the $1 million league will be. All three contests were won by 1-match margins (3-2).
The biggest clash so far was the one between Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu. Saina proved she is the best by winning in straight games.
Pune Pistons, Hyderabad Hotshots and Mumbai Masters have begun with wins. Krrish Delhi Smashers, Awadhe Warriors and Banga Beats came close but were edged out. They have time to regroup and bounce back in the coming matches.
On August 17, Lucknow will host two matches followed by Mumbai organising three on August 18, 19 and 20.
Take a look at the IBL action so far, in pictures.
OneIndia News

Saina Nehwal proves she is the best
Hyderabad Hotshots' Saina Nehwal smiles as she leaves the court after defeating PV Sindhu of Awadhe Warriors. Hyderabad won 3-2.

Finance Minister P Chidambaram at IBL
Finance Minister P Chidambaram watches Saina-Sindhu match in Delhi. Also among the audience was Olympic silver medallist shooter Rajyavardhan Rathore.

Banga Beats supporters in full force
Banga Beats supporters cheer their players in Delhi. Banga Beats lost their opening match to Mumbai Masters 2-3.

Film star Nagarjuna
Telugu film star Nagarjuna, who is co-owner of Mumbai Masters, watches the match between his franchise and Banga Beats in Delhi.

Who is lucky to catch that racquet?
Saina Nehwal throws her racquet into the stands and a lucky fan caught it. A prized possession for that person who got it.

Saina overcomes Sindhu challenge
Saina Nehwal in action against Sindhu during their match in Delhi.

The IBL Trophy is here
The IBL Trophy was unveiled on August 14. Seen here are the Indian players Jwala Gutta, PV Sindhu, Ashiwini Ponnappa and Saina Nehwal next to the trophy.

Players take oath during Opening Ceremony
The IBL players are seen taking oath during the Opening Ceremony in Delhi.

Artists perform during Opening Ceremony
Artists perform during the Opening Ceremony of IBL in Delhi on August 14.

Banga Beats players and support staff ecstatic
Banga Beats' players and support staff are ecstatic after winning a point.

Banga Beats' Hu Yun in action
Banga Beats' Hu Yun plays a shot against Mumbai Masters' Marc Zweibler. Yun lost to Zweibler.

What a shot from Zweibler
Marc Zweibler of Mumbai Masters executes a shot between his legs.

Mumbai Masters celebrate
Mumbai Masters players, support staff and co-owner Nagarjuna celebrate their win against Banga Beats.

A general view of Delhi stadium
A general view of DDA Badminton & Squash Stadium (Siri Fort) during Mumbai Masters Vs Banga Beats match.

Hu Yun goes aerial
Banga Beats' Hu Yun takes a leap to play a shot.


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