While competing in the semi-final of Nike-MSSA inter-school badminton team championships last year, Krishaeli Mehta experienced severe pain in her lower back and was forced to retire hurt. And when the pain became unbearable, she consulted a doctor and was diagnosed with a hairline fracture in her N-5 vertebra.

The injury forced her off the court for six months. Despite being advised by the doctor to switch sport, she was determined to make a comeback. She went through a strenuous physical fitness routine for three days a week while she spent the other sharpening her skills.

And now, the hard work that Krishaeli put in post her injury, is paying off. Strapped with a belt on her lower back, she fought back from being a game down to clinch her first title when she defeated Divya Vaidya of Bombay Scottish 10-21, 21-16, 21-11 in the final of the girls' under-12 category at the Indian Gymkhana yesterday. "I was very depressed when I couldn't play. Feeling restless I constantly enquired with the doctor when I would be able to start playing. I am very happy to win this title," the 11-year-old Balmohan Vidymandir student said.