PBL 2020: 5 standout performances from the season

#4 Sai Praneeth vs Pune 7 Aces (Lucknow leg)

Sai Praneeth started his PBL 2020 season with two losses but claimed his first win against Loh KY of the Pune 7 Aces. An all-round stroke play and extensively strong attack saw Sai Praneeth leading in the first half of play by a 6-4 margin. However, Loh KY took the lead after winning four consecutive points and claimed a lead at 8-6 which he converted into a 15-10 set win.

While Loh won the first set, the higher-ranked Sai Praneeth bounced back in the second set and with an ultra-aggressive approach, closed out a 15-7 win in the second set to take the match into the decider.

The decider was a closely contested affair with both the players covering the court smoothly and Praneeth taking an 8-7 lead. However, Sai Praneeth held onto his advantage and with a couple of powerful smashes, closed out a vital 15-8 win.

#5 Priyanshu Rajawat vs Mumbai Rockets (Hyderabad leg)

One of the most notable matches of the season was contested between 18-year-old Priyanshu Rajawat from the Hyderabad Hunters and World No. 50, Lee Dong Keun. In the Chennai leg, Priyanshu faced defeat against Lakshya Sen but the former came back to put in an impressive performance against Lee Keun.

With his deception and eye-catching smashes, Priyanshu made it difficult for the experienced Lee to try and make a comeback. The youngster did not give up at any point in the match and was focused during the rallies, displaying effective net play and smashes with utmost precision.

Undoubtedly, this was one of the most exciting victories in the PBL 2020 and the youngster definitely stamped his authority in the badminton circles.

Edited by Prasen Moudgal