Odera, Wanyoike to renew rivalry at Nyanza Badminton Open

Kenya U19's Fabian Derrick of Maseno University at Agha Khan Hall, Kisumu. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Former Kenya international Victor Odera is among the top badminton players expected to compete at the 2021 Nyanza Open Badminton tournament set to kick off on Saturday at the Agha Khan Hall in Kisumu.

Over 100 national and international badminton players will grace this year’s two-day badminton event which returns after 12 months out.

The annual tournament returns after a year out with last year’s edition having been shelved due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Odera, who features for Kisumu’s Agha Khan Shuttlers Badminton Club said he is looking forward to rekindling the youthful sparks that saw him represent the country in numerous international events including Commonwealth Games.

“It is a big tournament not only for the region but internationally with players coming in from different neighbouring countries. It’s going to be fun and am just going to enjoy myself,” said the former Kenya seed one.

Tournament Director John Apollo said the tournament will be played in three categories namely juniors, seniors, veterans and corporates and which has attracted Africa top ranked players including Brenda Awuori from Uganda.

“We want to encourage young talents and promotion of badminton as a sport in the country especially in the western region where the sport is not commonly played,” said Apollo who also doubles as Agha Khan Shuttlers Badminton Club player.

Current Kenya seed one John Wanyoike are some of the top crop local players set to battle for the main event alongside Kenya ladies seed two Lavina Martins, Kenya Under 19 seed one Fabian Derrick and Friday Ataman from Uganda.