Saina Nehwal Sweats it Out to Book Place in Malaysia Open Semis
Saina Nehwal was put under pressure by unseeded Sun Yu before the ace Indian shuttler managed to fightback to a win in the quarters.
World No. 1 Saina Nehwal survived a scare against unseeded Sun Yu of China in the quarterfinals of Malaysia Open in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. The ace Indian shuttler managed to eke out a 21-11, 18-21, 21-17 win.
Saina won the first game easily but failed to go past a determined Sun in the second. Saina, blew a big lead in the first half of the match, made several errors as Sun used her height and length to win crucial points. It went neck and neck before Saina buckled under the pressure.
The final game of the match was about long rallies with Saina showing renewed energy to carve out a 11-4 lead. The change of ends though helped Sun claim three straight points before drawing level at 14 points each.
The experienced Indian even conceded the lead before holding her nerves to go past the finish line. The rally for the final point was an outstanding display of athleticism with Saina rocking back and forth to dole out nearly impossible shots.
Saina will next play top seed and London Olympic champion Li Xuerui of China in what will be her third appearance in a Malaysia Open semi-final.