Snubbed by Tamil Nadu, Ankita eyes Haryana now

A clearly disappointed Ankita, who followed the norms and got an NOC from her state, said the whole episode has left a bitter taste. “I am confused. I took an NOC from North Bengal and suddenly I get a response that the TNTTA is not interested. I am in possession of all documents required for a smooth transfer and as a player I am disappointed that I did not get an offer to talk over a table. I am yet to come to terms with the whole issue,” Ankita said. 

The paddler said it is now time to look ahead and leave the entire saga behind. “Since I have an NOC, I can represent any state. I am looking to represent Haryana, but I should also sit down with my coach Raman sir and analyse the future. But there is no question of going back to North Bengal, as the facilities and the respect for players are way below par,” Ankita added. 

Apparently, the TNTA felt that by giving the Bengal player an opportunity, it would deny chances to home-grown players. Ankita, representing Petroleum Sports Promotion Board, would not be representing the state in national championships as she would be obliged to play for her employers, a factor that would have acted against her registration. 

Currently in Chennai, Ankita plans to embark on a pro-tour in a bid to improve her ranking. “I am off to Slovenia and Croatia at the end of the month to play on the pro-tour. I hope this entire saga doesn’t affect my morale,” she added. 

Ankita, ranked seventh in the country, was shaken by a minor injury on Thursday when the paddler fell down during her morning training routine. “The floor was a little damp and I fell down. I wasn’t able to walk properly for some time and now I am not able to fold my leg completely. It is a minor incident and I would be hitting practice very soon,” the paddler added confidently.