Orbih rates Lagos International Badminton Classics high
..Says it's beneficial to Nigerian players
As the 7th Lagos International Badminton Classics enters Day 3 on Friday, President of Badminton Federation of Nigeria Frank Orbih has expressed happiness that the Classics is living up to expectation noting that the calibre of players who are in Nigeria for the tournament has made it more competitive.
The Classics, the biggest price money championship in the continent with a jackpot of $15,000 served off Wednesday, August, 28,2024 at the Molade Okoya Thomas Sports Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos with 128 players from across many countries participating and Orbih believes that it will give Nigerian players the necessary exposure as they compete among some of the best in the world.
He noted that although last edition of the classics attracted more players because it served as Olympic qualifiers but was quick to add that this year’s edition was equally well attended because many of the players want to improve their world rankings.
” I’m really excited with the calibre of players that are participating in the classics and the quality of games being played.
“You’re aware that last year we had players from more than 20 countries because it served as an Olympic qualifier but this year, the attendance is equally high because we have players from 13 countries including; India, United States, United Kingdom and France participating.
” Some of the players are here to improve their world rankings and that’s why we’re witnessing explosive games
On chances of Nigerians making a podium finish at the competition, he expressed optimism that they stand a very good chance even as he was delighted that Anuoluwapo Opeyori has qualified for the quarter-finals.
” I think one important benefit our players enjoyed in the classics is that it gave opportunity to those of them who hitherto can not travel abroad for any championship to play against top ranked players as well as play the game at the highest level.
” Apart from Anuoluwapo booking a ticket to the quarter-finals, we still have some good players in the Men and women Doubles and even the Mixed Doubles, so, we’re hopeful of a good outing”, he posited.
Orbih assured Nigerians that the finals on Saturday will be very explosive and entertaining.
