Focus on Indian youngsters as PBL-5 set to kick off

World champion PV Sindhu will take on his mentor Pullela Gopichand's daughter Gayatri in an interesting opening day encounter featuring Hyderabad Hunters and Chennai Superstarz in fifth edition of Premier Badminton League (PBL) starting Monday.

Seven teams - Awadhe Warriors, Bengaluru Raptors, Mumbai Rockets, Hyderabad Hunters, Chennai Superstarz, North Eastern Warriors and Pune 7 Aces -- will slug it out for a prize of Rs 6 crore.

This will be the second consecutive season with Hyderabad Hunters for the Rio Olympic silver medallist, who led the Chennai franchise to title glory in the second season.

With Chennai's Kirsty Gilmour playing at the Thailand Masters, this will be a priceless opportunity for the 16-year-old debutante Gayatri to hone her skills and gain confidence in front of home fans.

"I have fond memories of winning the title for the Chennai franchise in the second season here. I thoroughly enjoy the love and support every time I play here. I am excited for the new season .