Malaysian shuttler and world no. 17 Daren Liew has replaced Hong Kong’s Wong Wing Ki in the Krrish Delhi Smashers’ team for the upcoming inaugural Indian Badminton League season, following an injury to the latter at the World Championship being played in Guangzhou, China.
The IBL governing council approved the request by Delhi Smashers made after they were appraised of Wong Wing’s injury by the Hong Kong Badminton Association.
“It’s a great feeling to be part of the IBL and I’m looking forward to joining my teammates at Krrish Delhi Smashers,” Liew said.
Delhi Smashers chief executive Kartikeya Rao said that Liew would add value to the team.
“Daren Liew is one of the most exciting players to watch in the sport and we hope to benefit enormously with this association. We also wish the injured Wong Wing Ki speedy recovery and a great future.”
Badminton Association of India president Akhilesh Das Gupta wished Wong Wing speedy recovery and welcomed Liew to the league.
“The unexpected injury to Wong Wing Ki has paved the way for another talented shuttler to be a part of the IBL. We welcome Daren Liew to the League and hope he will make his presence felt with his brilliant talent.”
The $1million league is set to open on August 14 with Delhi Smashers taking on Pune Pistons. A total of 90 matches will be played in the inaugural edition with the final scheduled for August 31.