BAN-BAJ badminton derby plays in Namchi NAMCHI SHUTTLERS LIFT WINTER TROPHY

GANGTOK, 02 Dec: The Namchi leg of the Badminton Derby Challenge Series between Badminton Association of Jorethang (BAJ) and Badminton Association of Namchi (BAN) was held at Indoor Gymnasium Hall, Namchi, on 01 Dec.
The inaugural match of this unique derby series between these two badminton associations was held in July 2013 at Jorethang, it may be recalled. As per the rules for this Derby, the two associations are to host one leg each every year on a summer and winter basis.
There were a total of 89 matches played between 8 men’s doubles team and 5 mixed doubles teams from either side. These were played on a round robin league basis. The Namchi team included the South District Collector Prabhakar Verma and ADC (Dev) Benu Gurung.
At the end of the day, the Badminton Association of Namchi emerged victorious winning the most number of games and therefore lifting the winter Derby trophy.   Tashi Dadul, the BAJ president, handed over the best Mixed doubles trophy to   Rajen Pradhan & Sanju Rai of BAN, while Durga Rai, president BAN, handed over the best men’s doubles pair to IK Rai &  Raju Rai also of BAN. Jigmey Namgyal, SE Power [South], handed over the winner’s trophy to the Badminton Association of Namchi
As per the rules of this derby, BAN will host the summer series while Jorethang Association will host the winter leg every year and in line with the motto of the Derby - “2013 to eternity”, it is hoped that this series will continue forever. This Derby has been initiated with a view to promote camaraderie and spirit of competition between these two Associations with an overall perspective of uplifting the game among the youth and veterans of these two regions. The games are held in an “IPL style” with live music and local sponsors chipping in with valuable contributions.