Mathias Boe replaces Jongjit in Awadhe Warriors

New Delhi: Olympic silver medallist Mathias Boe of Denmark Saturday was bagged by Awadhe Warriors as a replacement for banned Thai player Maneepong Jongjit for the upcoming $1 million Indian Badminton League (IBL).

The IBL governing council ratified the decision following a request from the Warriors to pick up the former men`s doubles World No.1 out of the reserve list of players who went unsold at the players auction. Commenting on the decision, Awadhe Warriors’ team official Abhijit Sarkar said: “We are delighted to bag one of the best doubles players in the world. I’m confident Mathias Boe will be a great asset for us.” The World No.3 Boe said he is looking forward to the Aug 14-31 tourney. “India is a great badminton country with so many fans and I look forward to be part of the event. I have been involved in the IBL from the beginning and have made myself available for the league this year,” said the 33-year-old, who bagged the silver at London Olympics last year with partner Carsten Mogensen. IANS had reported Friday that Boe`s base price was halved by IBL to $25,000 on his request. The 33-year-old Dane had vowed never to play in India after he went unsold in the players` auction July 22. "Didn`t get sold in IBL. I`m really pissed, as I have supported the event all the way through and almost left the national team to participate. After Thomas Cup next year, I will never set my feet in India again or support any events from their side," Boe had tweeted after the auction. IANS