Bird flu may kill badminton grand prix
The Times of India reports today that avian influenza may cost India its first grand prix badminton tournament. 
The story says:
Bird flu outbreaks in China had made India ban import of all premium goose feathers of Chinese origin to manufacture shuttlecocks.
In a last-minute bid to save India the blushes, BAI president V K Verma has shot off letters to secretaries in the animal husbandry department and the ministries of health and agriculture, as well as to the Sports Authority of India, urging them to review the ban.
Interesting fallout from the animal disease outbreak.
The story says:Bird flu outbreaks in China had made India ban import of all premium goose feathers of Chinese origin to manufacture shuttlecocks.
In a last-minute bid to save India the blushes, BAI president V K Verma has shot off letters to secretaries in the animal husbandry department and the ministries of health and agriculture, as well as to the Sports Authority of India, urging them to review the ban.
Interesting fallout from the animal disease outbreak.
Food poisoning fells Thai badminton star
The Malaysia Star reported last week that Thai number one Boonsak Ponsana has been forced out of the Malaysian Open badminton tournament after coming down with food poisoning on the eve of his departure for Kuala Lumpur.
Coach Udon Luangphetcharaporn said Boonsak's condition was not serious but he was weak and not in a good condition to play in the season-opening Super Series tournament at the Putra Stadium, adding, "It's unfortunate he is unable to play as he needs to fight for points to improve on his world rankings."
The 25-year-old law student enjoyed a memorable season last year, winning the Singapore Open and the World University Games gold medal. He is the highest ranked Thai at number 12 in the world rankings.
Coach Udon Luangphetcharaporn said Boonsak's condition was not serious but he was weak and not in a good condition to play in the season-opening Super Series tournament at the Putra Stadium, adding, "It's unfortunate he is unable to play as he needs to fight for points to improve on his world rankings."The 25-year-old law student enjoyed a memorable season last year, winning the Singapore Open and the World University Games gold medal. He is the highest ranked Thai at number 12 in the world rankings.
