India need to have a strong grassroots structure

In an interaction with DT Next, the coach spoke on the camp, on Egypt’s dominance in the sport and more. Excerpts:

On the training camp: The first impression I got is that they enjoyed the camp. They will bring good results. It is important that we have to win against New Zealand and hope to qualify for the knock-outs.  The prime focus is to concentrate on ranking. The highest player is ranked 13 (Joshna) and we have to find a way to crawl into the top-10, preferably between five and eight. 

On the training schedule: The training schedule was packed with different methods. They had match scenarios and strategic training for four hours a day apart from their fitness schedule. We had reviews every week and the feedback from the players was encouraging. They had worked hard and enjoyed the camp, which can go a long way in producing the desired results. My expectations from this team has gone up after watching them train. 

On Egypt’s dominance in squash: In Egypt, we have a strong domestic structure. A lot of things fell in the right place at the right time and the sport grew in stature. The success in Egypt is a product of decades of hard work. We have about 15 high-quality tournaments in Cairo and Alexandria, the power-house cities, and it is easy for players to participate in all of them as they are just 200 kms apart. On his role and what India need to do to improve in the sport. I am trying to impart the best methods and techniques. 

A strong grassroots structure is the need of the hour, without forgetting to care and develop the existing pros. We need to build a new system and a career path for the budding players. We have to create a strong domestic competition base as competitive methods are the only way to bring the best in players and create a strong domestic pool. 

On the U-19 players Akanksha Salunkhe and Sunayna Kuruvilla: I am amazed at these U-19 players. They are learning well and quick. Although they do not have enough experience at the highest level, I am sure they can pick up quickly and play well. The gap between Joshna/Dipika and the other players is huge in the country and playing more tournaments is the only way to bridge the gap.