Sathiyan targets double at Gold Coast

“We (as a unit) are well prepared. I am personally targeting three (medals). The women’s team is doing well too. So, I won’t be surprised if we return home with about five to six medals,” said Sathiyan, who was brimming with confidence.

The Indian contingent left for Gold Coast from New Delhi on Friday. Sathiyan, who is the country’s highest-ranked player, is raring to complete a double Down Under. “My realistic aim is to clinch gold in both (men’s doubles and team events). Since I am seeded in the top four in singles, I will target a medal there as well,” added the local lad.

Commenting on his preparations ahead of CWG 2018, the Chennai-based player asserted, “We had a two-week long training camp in Portugal in February, which helped us to be in good shape for the event. I have also worked with my coach, S Raman, on how to tackle various opponents, mainly the Englishmen.”

The 25-year-old was positive about remaining composed throughout the course of the event despite being wary of the threat posed by various other medal contenders.

“Looking to play without pressure, just like any other pro tour. Once we enjoy ourselves, I feel the results will automatically come,” remarked the World No. 49.

Sathiyan will pair up with another local lad Sharath Kamal in a bid to bag gold in the men’s doubles event. 

“England will obviously be a favourite to finish first. It beat us last time and we are now looking forward to make amends for it. I have won a few doubles events alongside Sharath off late and I feel if we can take that momentum into the tournament, we can surely win the gold,” he added.

This time around, it is the Tamil Nadu players who form the nucleus of the men’s TT team with Sathiyan, Sharath and Anthony Amalraj being a part of it. 

“It is great to see the core of the senior team come from our state. We share a very good rapport with each other. I would be very happy if the same trend continues down the lane and if some of the juniors (like Preyesh) play alongside me in the future,” signed off Sathiyan.