Ponnappa brings an end to badminton partnership with Jwala

Ashwini Ponnappa and Jwala Gutta — the most successful duo in Indian badminton history, have ended their partnership. A Times of India report says that Ashwini has written to the Badminton Association of India (BAI) that she would like to partner Pradnya Gadre in all future tournaments — a clear sign that one of the most popular women’s doubles pair will now go their own ways. Ashwini played with Pradnya while Jwala was taking a break from the game post Olympics. [caption id=“attachment_669483” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  The Jwala-Ashwini are the only Indian duo to have won a medal at the World Championships in England. AFP[/caption] The Jwala-Ashwini combo are the only Indian pair to have won a medal at the World Championships in England (when they won bronze in 2011). They also struck gold during the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. On her return to the circuit, Jwala had reiterated her interest in playing with Ashwini, something which wasn’t met with much interest by her former partner. Jwala’s attempt at partnering Prajakta Sawant was also unsuccessful — with the latter unable to get a visa which would allow her to play in the All England. This reduced Jwala to playing only in the mixed doubles with V Diju. While Ashwini was not available for comment, Pradnya was quoted in the report as saying: “Immediately after the All England, Ashwini told me that she would continue with me. I am really excited to play with her. Jwala is a good player and it would be difficult for me to fill her boots. But I am confident of doing well with Ashwini.” Click here to read the full Times of India report.