NT NETWORK
CANDOLIM
“Anura (Prabhudesai) is showing a lot of promise. She is one of the contenders to enter the top flight of badminton in India. I expect a lot from her,” India National coach Pullela Gopichand told The Navhind Times on the side lines of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) Annual General Body Meeting at a starred hotel here on Tuesday.
“I have seen her play during the nationals and have found her to be hard working ,” Gopichand told the media during a press interaction after the election of the new BAI Executive Committee.
“ It is for a player to decide how she wants to bloom. I can advise, if asked for advise. Anura has the potential to increase her international rankings by working more on her game,” stated Gopichand when asked whether she should change her training module.
“ I started coaching in 2004. We are seeing the result now. The positive for badminton is that a lot of youngsters are taking up to the sport now. There were just a few interested a few years ago. This change in attitude towards badminton is the positive the BAI should nurture,”Gopichand said at a press briefing along with newly elected president.
“Gopichand has been appointed national coach for a period of four years,” newly elected president Himanta Biswa Sarma told the media in an interaction at the end of the BAI AGM.
“Saina, Sindhu and Srikanth are the start of the bloom in badminton in India. I think these three have been the flag bearers of the future of the game,” stated Gopichand. Apart from being the coach of India Gopichand has an academy of his own in Hyderabad.
“Each State Association will be receiving a grant of Rs five lakhs annually from now on. BAI will also provide the prize money for all tournaments organised by State Associations. We have decided at the AGM to share the finances with all Associations,” BAI President told the media.
“ Players of today are showing a belief in their physical ability and have grown stronger both emotionally and physically. This is a plus point that we need to exploit,” stated Gopichand when asked about badminton ten years back and
today.
“Goa has been allotted to host the Veterans Nationals. Each State government has to come forward to help the loacal Associations with infrastructure for the game to grow in the country.” Himanta stated.