Badminton Association of India (BAI) unveiled the fascinating trophy today at Badminton Association of India office in New Delhi. The glittering trophy to be awarded to the winner of Star Sports PBL 2016 was unveiled in the presence of Dr. Akhilesh Das Gupta, President, BAI & Chairman, PBL along with the two teams who reached the Final of the prestigious league.
The stunning masterpiece of trophy is designed by the Chief Designer and exclusively handcrafted by Master Craftsman at Ravissant who is known for its exquisite and state of the art silverware across the world. For the first time in a league trophies will be presented to both the winner as well as the 1st runner up. While the height of the Winner’s trophy is 36" (Gold Finish) and Runner-up trophy is 28" (Silver Finish) and made of sterling silver.
This eye-catching trophy is designed to stir-up the interest for Badminton. The trophy glorifies the shuttle-cock, which symbolises the sport of Badminton. It celebrates and depicts the many facets of a sportsman and his journey from struggle to victory.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Akhilesh Das Gupta, President, BAI & Chairman, PBL stated, “Presenting the trophy brings immense pleasure and it reflects the success of Badminton Association of India’s endeavour to take the sport to the next level. The Trophy is indeed a very unique piece as it was crafted specially by Chief Designer of Ravissant, who are the best in hot enamelling. The Winning Team will feel proud to hold the magnificent trophy and will inspire the finalists tomorrow to compete for the beauties that the designers have created on our behalf.”
Speaking ahead of the Final Match, HS Prannoy of Mumbai Rockets said, “Till now, the Star Sports PBL has been very competitive as all the teams have the best players but the final battle will tomorrow between two best teams of the League. The Trophy looks very exhilarating and its worth fighting for it. ”
Delhi Acers’ Ajay Jayaram added, “It has been a awesome journey in the League and we played like a winner. Now we need to overcome the last hurdle tomorrow. Though we will have the home advantage but we can’t ignore the strengths of Mumbai Rockets, who defeated mighty Awadhe warriors yesterday. My whole team like the trophy as its very beautiful.”The League is all set to culminate tomorrow wherein Delhi Acers will take on Mumbai Rockets in front of a packed stadium in New Delhi.
The Star Sports Premier Badminton League started from 2nd January 2016 where six franchisees - Delhi Acers, Hyderabad Hunters, Bengaluru Top Guns, Chennai Smashers, Mumbai Rockets and Awadhe Warriors - competed for the top honour. The closing day of the League will witness Delhi Acers taking on Mumbai Rockets in the Finale in New Delhi.