The legendary Prakash Padukone feels that Indian badminton is going through a golden era and it can only get better given the kind of support coming from all fronts.
Speaking on the sidelines of an event here on Sunday, the former All England champion said that the sport is getting more support with so many foundations, academies coming up and also the fact that the Badminton Association of India, Sports Authority of India and the Government of India have been doing a great job in promoting the sport.
“I think it all started with the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi in terms of badminton getting the media attention it deserved. And the best part is that the shuttlers are producing the results,” he said.
“It is great to see the big stars compete in the senior Nationals. This gives not only a huge fillip to young talent but also helps the organisers in getting sponsorship,” said the 62-year-old Prakash.
“These big stars have a responsibility and it is important for them to realise to take out a few days for these Nationals. I hope the stars taking part will be a permanent feature,” the champion shuttler of yesteryears said.
“It is not just about a particular player like K. Srikanth. The Indians in general are getting many things right like an all-round game, training, exposure and improving one’s skills quickly.
The wonderful support system of qualified coaches is taking care of every aspect,” said Prakash said when asked about Srikanth’s achievements.
Superb coaching team
“After Mulyo (Indonesian coach Mulyo Handoyo) has joined the Indian camp, there has been a big change and rapid improvement in results, especially in men’s singles.
“Gopi has also been contributing in his own way. A very good team of coaches is working in tandem and the results are there for all to see,” said Prakash.
Commenting on young Lakshya Sen (last year’s runner-up in the senior Nationals), Prakash felt he had a long way to go.
“He is one of the most promising top shuttlers in the country. A very good talent. Interesting to see that the big stars in men’s circuit are also pretty young. We are glad that the reserve bench too is very strong right now,” he said.