As a team’s dream came true, Indian badminton legend Prakash Padukone highlighted the passion, focus and dedication needed to put together a champion team.
THOMAS CUP VICTORY: WISH TEAM INDIA
“It’s an unforgettable day for Indian badminton. We have now really arrived on the big stage. It was brilliant teamwork overall. The performance of this team is not a flash in the pan, they worked very It’s no small feat to beat Malaysia, Denmark and Indonesia in a week Earlier, due to various factors like injuries and unavailability of players, we didn’t could field the best team, but it was the best team to represent India,” said Padukone, who led the Indian team that reached the semi-finals of the competition 43 years ago.
The 66-year-old praised doubles pair Satwik Sairaj and Chirag Shetty. The duo put India in a strong position with their 18-21, 23-21, 21-19 comeback against the famous pair of Md Ahsan and Kevin Sukamuljo.
“Although every player contributed to the team’s success, in my opinion, the most valuable players were our first pair of doubles consisting of Satwik Sairaj and Chirag Shetty. They made a big difference in the balance of the team. team by winning the crucial first double, which has always been our weak link,” Padukone pointed out.
He added: “Their victories against Malaysia, Denmark and Indonesia helped ease the burden on our singles players. This is in no way to take away the glory from our singles players as they all delivered when it mattered most.” On the team’s winning mantra, Padukone said, “For the first time, every player performed to their potential, which is a big part of the reason for this stunning win.”
Padukone thinks one of the biggest takeaways from this victory will be the long-awaited recognition of the Thomas Cup in India. “Unlike the Davis Cup in tennis, the Thomas Cup is not something the common man knows very well. With this title win, I am sure the Thomas Cup will get the recognition it deserves,” said said Padukone.
You Can Read Also
