Saina Nehwal to hold court at Express Adda today

Saina Nehwal,armed with a powerful smash and a fearless attitude that was like a blast of fresh air,arrived on Indias sporting scene when she won her first major title in 2006. Seven years on and still going strong with an Olympic bronze medal from London to boot the 23-year-old badminton ace is the one-woman Indian army taking on the might of Chinese juggernaut in her chosen sport. She is currently No. 2 in the world,having won a clutch of Super Series titles.

On Friday,a select audience in the capital will interact with Nehwal at the latest edition of Express Adda at the Olive Beach. Like a previous guest from the sports field,Virat Kohli,Nehwal can be counted as among the most important voices in her field,someone whos proven that hard work and determination can carry an Indian to the threshold of greatness in her game,eschewing all the impetuousness of youth to focus on her target of becoming No 1.

Ever consistent and known for her mental fortitude rare qualities in India where several talented sportspersons end up as under-achievers Nehwal has also balanced fame with humility despite being Indias richest non-cricket sports figure,with her Rs 40 crore deal last year.

Nehwal will be in conversation with The Indian Express Editor-in-Chief Shekhar Gupta and will talk about what it is like to be a lone ranger against the Chinese as well as what it takes to construct her uniquely strong mental make-up. A select audience drawn from the capitals very best is set for a unique,stimulating conversation with the successful youngster.