Saina Nehwal has been below par this year, with injuries affecting her performance, but the Indian star shuttler showed no signs of weakness in the ongoing Australian Open, where she has reached the finals after some incredible performances. The world number eight will meet China's Sun Yu in the Australian Open 2016 final on Sunday.
Click here to read how Saina outclassed China's Sun Yu to win Australian Open title.
The title-decider is expected to be a cracker, with both stars being incredible players who can come up with a dominating display and win the all-important Australian Open final.
Saina and Sun Yu have been remarkable in the Australian Open so far. Saina defeated Wang Yihan in straight games, 21-8, 21-12, in the semifinals, while Sun Yu got past Li Xuerui in a sensational match, with the score reading 21-18, 21-19.
Saina was at her incredible best against Ratchanok Intanon in the quarters as well. It was Saina's victory against Intanon that gave her immense confidence to come up with her best against Yihan in the semis.
Saina has momentum on her side after crushing victories against two of the best players in the badminton circuit. Saina seems to have regained her form in this Australian Open. However, Saina, who always gives her best, irrespective of the opponent, will not take Sun Yu lightly.
Saina has looked mighty aggressive in the last two matches of the Australian Open to reach the finals, and the Indian star is not expected to change her approach against Sun Yu. If Saina gets her offensive game going, it will be difficult for Sun Yu to get past the former world number one, who also has an incredible defence.
The Chinese girl has been brilliant in the Australian Open, playing some sensational badminton in the competition from the first round, where she defeated fifth-seed Nozomi Okuhara in a tight three-set match. Sun Yu has not looked back ever since that victory, and has defeated all her opponents in straight games.
However, Sun Yu does not enjoy a great record against Saina, who has defeated the Chinese player five times in six matches. To make matters worse for Sun Yu, who won their first head-to-head contest in 2013, has lost her last five matches against Saina.
Though Saina seems to have an edge over her opponent, records will be thrown out of the window and the shuttler who plays consistent badminton in the Australian Open final will win the title.
Where to watch live
Saina Nehwal vs Sun Yu Australian Open 2016 final is scheduled for 5 p.m local time (12:20 p.m) but the timings of the match may change depending on earlier fixtures.
Indian viewers can watch Australian 2016 live in Star Sports 4/HD with live streaming on starsports.com.
