I'll let my racquet do the talking: Jwala Gutta

BADMINTON: Disappointed for being selected below her base price at the Indian Badminton league (IBL) auction, doubles-speciallist Jwala Gutta, says she will give reply through some excellent performances at this inaugural league. “The minimum thing we expected was to be informed. Nevertheless, I am very happy to be part of IBL. I am very much looking forward to it. Badminton court is my territory and that’s where I will do most of my talking. I will let my racquet speak for myself,” she stated, after being taken by the Delhi Smashers at $31,000 (Rs 18,51,520). “I have done a lot for the country. I have won medals and given lots of performances. In doubles there was nobody before me. I have changed how people look at doubles. People are expecting a lot from doubles after my performances. “It is painful. We are also working hard. I don’t get involved in politics but I am always dragged into it. I have become habituated to it now.

“When you sign a contract stating that you are an icon player, who wouldn’t be sad or feel cheated or let down. I have promoted IBL like no other player. I have been to many cities to promote it. I thought icon players will be treated equally. “IBL franchises know that I am a doubles player. If they are expecting singles from me then I don’t know what to say. I am a doubles specialists in the country. My services will only be for doubles. “In mixed doubles I have been in top-six in the world. So nobody can question me about that also. If they are thinking that women’s doubles are cut that’s why Jwala’s base price has been reduced, that’s a very stupid thing because singles players are also going to play in singles only. “I don’t want to get into blame game. I am looking forward to play for Delhi. I am ready to give my 100 per cent. I am not a quitter. I love the game. I am enjoying the game. I am sure IBL will be colourful and fans will see exciting and close battles.” Jwala’s former doubles partner, Ashwini Ponappa, was also a part of this so-called ‘unfair’ thing, after she went to Pune Pistons at base price of $25,000. “If I speak up people either say she is complaining or she is a rebel. I have already been labelled rebel. But whatever happened wasn’t expected,” Ashwini quoted.