Sunayna hopes to bag gold at Asiad

“My long-term goal has always been to win a gold medal at the Asian Games or the Commonwealth. I am excited about being a part of the senior team and this will be a different experience for sure. I feel I am half-way there, if not quarter (laughs). It is just the beginning but I am glad that I got there,” added Sunayna, whose voice was filled with exuberance. 

In an interaction with DTNext last year, the 19-year-old had expressed her commitment towards taking her game to the next level, which would enable her to join forces with some of the best in the business. 

“I’m determined to prove myself at the highest level and by doing that I will get a taste of what it is like to rub shoulders with the high and mighty of the sport,” the local lass had told. Her hard work has finally bore fruit as she will get to play in the company of India’s two top-notch talents, Dipika Pallikal and Joshna Chinappa. 

Speaking about the excitement of sharing the space with Dipika, her role-model who also happens to be her elder cousin, the Chennai-based player said, “The time we get to travel together is very less as she is often off to big tournaments. It is really nice to get to travel with her and alongside her.” 

Commenting on her preparations ahead of the continental event, Sunayna asserted, “The plan is not yet set. I would definitely like to go and get some game-time under my belt but I will be training hard at the ISA here.” She also pointed out that her selection was not out of the blue and was a prize for her persistent work towards her target. 

“It’s not been a momentary one but has been long time coming. He (Deepak Mishra) was very happy with my selection. I have also worked very closely with coach Achraf El Karargui.”  

National coach Deepak Mishra remarked the call was purely because of her tireless efforts. “She is really hard-working. She is someone who comes up with the same excitement on every single day,” said Deepak. 

“This is the biggest test for her. This is really important and I will make sure that I will give her a few days break for recovery. We will then start preparing for the Asian (Games),” added Deepak, who trains her at the Indian Squash Academy here.