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Valiyyaveetil Diju and Jwala Gutta, 28 and 25 years of age respectively, are reported to produce magic in the badminton courts. Diju and Gutta make up the tandem that caused world champion duo Widianto and Natsir to fall at the recent Grand Prix. The pair became the first of many to win the GP title.

Pullela Gopichan, chief national coach from India, reveals the fact that it is this magic both perform on the courts with their badminton shuttlecocks that makes them the best combination or tandem for the world badminton championship in Hyberabad next month. Ever Gutta complements her partner, Diju well with top shape game playing, then this is the surprise packet India will have for their opponents at the Hyberabal World Badminton Championships.

The spotlight may now be at Saina Newhal and perhaps, to some extent, World No. 15, Chetan Anand however this tandem are practicing hard, gearing themselves for the challenge of the World Badminton Championships in Hyperabad with full commitment, shares Gopichand.

Diju is confident that championships in Hyberabad may be easier for the two of them compared to the numerous grand prix’s they took part in. Gutta added that the fact that they are currently the 7th seeded team makes them relish, enjoy the challenge more though there may be more pressure from the crowd what with the expectations they have on the pair.

The team first came together at the Majors of the world circuit last year but since 2006, they have been participating in smaller events. Diju and Gutta are revealed to be hoping for a medal at the Hyberabad World Badminton Championships.

“We can win a medal and definitely that is the dream we are chasing,” shares Diju to The Hindu in a chat one Saturday morning.