Former India shuttler Aparna Popat has hailed the Badminton Association of India`s (BAI) revamped domestic structure. She feels that BAI`s recent announcement regarding the classification of the senior ranking tournaments into three levels will prove beneficial in the development of the sport in the country.

According to the new structure, Level 3 will have six series tournaments in the year, while Level 2 will have four Super Series tournaments. The premier Super Series tournament (twice a year) is bracketed as Level 1. Popat feels besides the much-needed exposure, the increase in prize money in domestic tournaments will be a bonus to the players. The prize money for Level 1 event is valued at Rs 25 lakh, Level 2 and 3 will have 15 and 10 lakh respectively, while 50 lakh is allocated for the senior nationals. The first set of these Level 3 tournaments will likely be held from May this year, while the Level 2 events could be conducted in July.