Badminton News: Indian senior star, HS Prannoy said he was surprised to see the Indian team manage to win the Thomas Cup for the first time in history since 1949.

“It has been an incredible journey. Never thought this could happen. We think we will win a medal, but not definitely gold,” said HS Prannoy, one of the architects of India’s historic Thomas Cup triumph in Bangkok last week.

“This is a collective effort. The result of a decade of effort by Pak Gopi (National Head Coach and now Vice President of BAI). He changed the badminton scene with all his hard work,” said Prannoy in a conversation with Sportsstar.

“He (Gopi) saw that we could compete with the best in the world. Credit goes to all the support staff in Hyderabad who worked tirelessly with all the players at Gopi Academy,” said the world number 23.

“I think one of the secrets of India’s success in the Thomas Cup is that everyone gave more than 100%. And, most importantly, we all want to change the perception that we, as a team, are not a force to be reckoned with in the Thomas Cup. So in that context, this epic victory is for the next generation of players that we can do at this level,” explained Prannoy, 29.

“I don’t think there is a turning point. Every match is crucial. It’s important to note that every combination of singles and doubles from Satwik and Chirag is on point when the team turns to them,” said he declared. “Lakshya is exceptional under pressure, Srikanth has consistently put in one of his best performances throughout the championship,” he said.

Speaking about his performances which led him to thrilling quarter-final and semi-final victories (his second despite injury), HS Prannoy said he had nothing to prove to anyone.

“I’m very grateful to BAI for giving me this opportunity. And I’m happy to be able to contribute to the team’s victory,” he said.

“There was never any question of quitting despite the injury in the semi-finals. At the beginning there was a lot of pain, but I didn’t want to give up. Luckily, from the second game I felt more at ease. comfortable,” he added of his breakthrough semi-final performances that took India to the final.

Regarding the team bond, HS Prannoy said that he and Srikanth have improved a bit as senior players. “That’s what needs to change. To be honest, I never thought a bond like this would happen in a team. Well, we all think we have the firepower to win. this Thomas Cup,” he said.

Was it a conscious effort to build such a bond? “Yes, of course. In team matches, body language is paramount as it is with most of the major Asian powerhouses in badminton. Every day we have meetings and the strong desire to win is palpable,” said said Prannoy.

“We really need this kind of atmosphere in the team, especially when you play for your country. I am grateful that I was able to play my part in the victory of the team. Yes, we must continue to show the same friendship and bond in all future events,” he added.

“I don’t set individual goals. My philosophy has always been simple, enjoy the process, put in the effort and the result will be where it belongs.”

Tags Articles: HS Prannoy, kidambi srikanth, India, Thomas Cup 2022

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