Vayuputra Tigers Clinch FNCC–Pullela Gopichand Badminton League 2026 Title

Hyderabad: The FNCC–Pullela Gopichand Badminton League 2026 concluded on a high note at the Film Nagar Cultural Center, with Vayuputra Tigers emerging as champions after a dominant performance in the final.

In the title clash, Vayuputra Tigers defeated Elegans Eagles with a convincing scoreline of 6–2. Earlier, in the third-place match, Porus Panthers secured victory over FNCC Lions by 6–3.

The tournament witnessed exciting performances across categories. In the women’s junior singles, Aaradhya of Vayuputra Tigers staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Kanvika of Elegans Eagles (3-15, 15-13, 15-11). In the women’s singles category, Shreyanshi (Elegans Eagles) defeated K. Navya (Vayuputra Tigers) 15-12, 15-05, while K. Sershra Reddy (Vayuputra Tigers) edged past Disha Santosh in a closely fought match (15-14, 12-15, 15-14).

In men’s junior singles, Linesh (Vayuputra Tigers) overcame Chinmay (Elegans Eagles) with a straight-games win (15-12, 15-13). In the men’s singles matches, Shourya (Vayuputra Tigers) defeated S. Pranit (Elegans Eagles) 15-12, 15-12, while Tazuwala (Elegans Eagles) triumphed over Tharun Manepalli (15-11, 06-15, 15-12).

The mixed doubles title went to Yogansh and Anjana of Vayuputra Tigers, who defeated Hari and Varna (Elegans Eagles) 15-14, 15-13. In men’s doubles, Ruban and Mithelesh (Vayuputra Tigers) outplayed Krishna and Sai Raman (Elegans Eagles) 15-14, 15-07.

The final standings saw Vayuputra Tigers crowned champions, followed by Elegans Eagles as runners-up, Porus Panthers in third place, and FNCC Lions finishing fourth.

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Speaking on the occasion, Pullela Gopichand, Chief National Coach of the Indian badminton team, appreciated FNCC’s continued support for sports development. He emphasized the importance of encouraging young talent at the grassroots level, stating that local players deserve the same recognition and support as international stars.

V. Chamundeswarinath revealed that plans are underway to elevate the league to a national level, with next year’s entry fee proposed at ₹25 lakh per team and a more structured selection process.

The event was graced by chief guest Nikhat Zareen, a two-time world champion boxer, who lauded the performances of young players and expressed hope that similar platforms would be extended to boxing in the future.

During the prize distribution ceremony, Nikhat Zareen and V. Chamundeswarinath presented a cash Award of ₹10 lakh to the winning team, Vayuputra Tigers, in the presence of key FNCC office bearers, including President K.S. Rama Rao and other committee members.

The tournament not only showcased emerging talent but also highlighted FNCC’s commitment to promoting sports at the grassroots level.