PBL 2018: Rating each team in the Premier Badminton League and their chances

Marin will play for the Hyderabad Hunters

Hyderabad Hunters 4/5

Last year’s semi-finalist, the Hunters would be eager to go the distance this time. The Fernando Rivas-coached team have retained the reigning Olympic champion Carolina Marin, whose presence in the team is already a boost to her teammates that includes B. Sai Praneeth, Rasika Raje and 17-year-old Satwiksairaj Rankireddy.

Besides, Lee Hyun II will bring a lot of experience to the side. Former Olympic and World Champion Markis Kido will be another star name in the side and is expected to weave some magic in mixed doubles with partner Pia Zebadiah. Overall, they look a decent side.

Delhi Dashers 3/5

The Dashers have remained unlucky so far and will be eager to reach at least the semi-finals. They look an even side this time with China’s Tian Houwei and Korean Sung Ji Hyun leading from the front. The presence of Wong Wing Ki Vincent and R.M.V. Gurusaidutt will add to their formidable singles department.

Russian heavyweights Ivan Sozonov and Vladimir Ivanov will be responsible for the men’s doubles, while Ashwini Ponnappa and Ivanov are expected to pair up for mixed doubles. Should they click together, they can turn out to be a lethal pair posing threat to other teams.