Sidek push kept Saina on toes

What do you do when you are the best woman shuttler in the country, but need to improve your game in order to compete with the world8217;s best? Play against the men, of course. World No. 45 Saina Nehwal has been doing just that for the last month or so and she says she is fitter and sharper than ever before.

Saina, along with a host of other junior shuttlers of the country, has just returned after training in Malaysia under the legendary Misbun Sidek at his club Nusa Masuri. 8220;It was a great experience playing against the men and that too against someone like World No. 9 Muhammed Hafiz B Hashim. I sparred with some of the best juniors as well, at times playing five to six games at a stretch. The one-month stint has helped me immensely,8221; the 16-year-old said.

The Philippines Open champion has lost no time in taking to the courts again. 8220;The Korean and Hong Kong Opens are just round the corner and I need to get my game in top gear given the profile of these events,8221; she said.

In this regard, Saina sounded pleased to have her coach travelling with her. 8220;I did miss him in the last tour despite winning the Philippines Open and the fact that he will be travelling with us gives me that extra boost,8221; she said.

Asked about her expectations for the two Six-Star events, Saina said: 8220;I know the expectations will be high but you must realise that these are two of the best tournaments around. I will try to do my best and hope for a good draw and a bit of luck.8221;