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Internet Desk: Kidambi Srikanth’s efforts in reaching three Super Series finals and then winning back to back finals have been lauded by the Indian badminton legends like Prakash Padukone and U Vimal Kumar. Kidambi’s fitness level had contributed for his upward projection in his career.
“I think he is in great form. It is very creditable. When we were playing, winning two or three tournaments was not uncommon. These days, in the present format, it is tough,” Padukone told TOI. “He has reached three finals and won two, it is one of his best periods. I think he always had it in him. Of late, all the Indian players are doing well. I think the addition of the Indonesian coaches has made a big difference,” the former All England Open champion said.
“They all feel much stronger and fitter. Credit must go to coach P Gopichand for identifying these foreign coaches and getting them in. Getting the right people in is an important aspect of being the chief coach. He has built a good team,” Padukone said.
Meanwhile, Vimal said that Srikanth was dealing with the pressure that comes with success a lot better than he did when he won the China Open Super Series three years ago. “After 2014, Srikanth was struggling to cope with the attention. He also had various injuries that affected his progress. The important thing I have noticed about his game now is that he has developed patience. He doesn’t just hit blindly anymore, but is more calm and sensible. He is constructive and more creative too, so that’s a big plus,” said the former National coach.
Vimal said Korean Son Won Ho, a defensive player, two times in two events was a feat. “The World Championships will be a big test for him, but these wins will be big confidence booster.
Chen Long didn’t look too good in the final. Maybe he is coming back from an injury, but whatever it is, we can’t take anything away from Srikanth. Winning two events on the trot is creditable,” he said.
Vimal said Sai Praneeth, who beat Srikanth in the Singapore Open final this year, had also shown consistency at the highest level. “These two boys were always good, they always had the calibre. Putting it all together was important.
We must give credit to the two Indonesian coaches working with them. They have raised the fitness levels of players. I would rate these two players as exciting prospects. Their variations and shot-making is good. They have a lot of deceptive shots from the back of the court.”