MUMBAI: The International Badminton Federation (IBF) and its marketing agency Total Sports Asia (TSA) have launched Badminton Manager, an interactive fantasy game.

IBF executive deputy president Datuk Punch Gunalan says that Badminton Manager allows badminton fans from around the world to become more actively involved in the game, managing their own team of players.

"Fantasy games are very well known in other major sports like football and formula one. It creates a new level of enjoyment for the badminton fan by giving them an interactive experience of the game."

Total Sports Asia CEO Marcus Luer says, "Playing Badminton Manager will bring fans closer to the players, tournaments and the new points system with its fun and educational elements. We want to share this opportunity with as many fans as possible and we are offering this top of the line product at absolutely no cost for the users."

Badminton Manager is launched in conjunction with the Thomas & Uber Cup. Gunalan said that "Starting with Thomas & Uber Cup just seems right. It represents a terrific opportunity for badminton enthusiasts to get acquainted with the game. We have plans to extend Badminton Manager to the World Championships in September and continue with a year-long version by the 2007 season.

"Being a truly global sport, an online presence is increasingly important for the game of badminton. Badminton Manager will be featured on the official IBF and Thomas & Uber Cup websites. It will also have its own dedicated website at www.badmintonmanager.net".

Sportdreams, a European fantasy sports company from Europe produced Badminton Manager 2006. The company's CEO Gerald Smith says, "We believe that the fantasy badminton audience will grow rapidly. We are not only creating a true fun experience for fans around the world, but at the same time build a database with the incredibly dedicated and loyal following that is treasured by commercial partners.