Hong Kong Open: Saina Nehwal advances to pre-QF, beats Porntip Buranaprasertsuk 12-21, 21-19, 21-17

New Delhi: Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal on Wednesday advanced into the pre-quarterfinal of Hong Kong Open with a well fought win over Thialand's Porntip Buranaprasertsuk.

After losing the first game, 12-21, the Hyderabadi shuttler staged a brilliant fightback to win the next two games 21-19, 21-17.

Ironically, it was Buranaprasertsuk, who ended Saina's campaign a week ago at the China Open.

Three months after limping out of the Rio Olympics due to a severe knee injury, Saina was back on the court but her fight against Buranaprasertsuk ended with a 16-21 21-19 14-21 loss in a women's singles match that lasted almost an hour.

Despite the loss, Saina said she was feeling better after her comeback and was looking forward to other tournaments.

"I am feeling good about my fitness level and it will only get better for me from here. I am quite confident of getting back to my best soon and really look forward to play the Premier Badminton League for my team, Awadhe Warriors," she said.

Premier Badminton League is scheduled to be held from January 1 next year.