Israelis dominate International Badminton Classics in Lagos

Israelis Misha Zilberman and Ksenia Polikarpova have emerged champions in the men and women categories of this year’s Lagos International Badminton Classics held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Molade Okoya-Thomas at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere.

Zilberman defeated Malaysia’s Misbun Ramdan Mohmed Misbun 2-1 to win the men’s singles, while Polikarpova beat India’s Sri Kreshna Priya Kudaralu 2-1 game to cart home the women’s singles top prize award.

The Indian, however, dominated the doubles events. The pair of Kuhuo Garg and Riya Mookerjee won the men’s doubles, while the team of Attri Manu and Reddy Sumeeth won the women’s doubles.

Speaking on the championship, the Chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Kweku Adedayo Tandoh, expressed happiness with the outcome of the Nigerian players, especially in the women categories that attracted 24 nations in the world.

“This was a good record for our players and it showed that they are improving in their game. This was a remarkable performance and I want to say our Badminton is growing.

“I believe if these players are exposed to more competitions especially Classics across the world, it will definitely affect their game, “ Tandoh said.

The chairman then thanked Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for providing enabling environment for the organisation of the event.

President of Badminton Federation of Nigeria, Francis Orbih, described the Classics as a success with the support of state.

“I’m glad that we have been laying a good platform upon which a solid legacy for Badminton in Nigeria and Lagos State is being built.

“I want to appreciate the Lagos State government, our partners and the media for the tremendous support we have received since inception.

I have no doubt in my mind that the success achieved so far will sustain the vision and even lift Lagos International Badminton Classics to a greater height,” Orbih said.