I need to work more on the court: Ashmita Chaliha

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: She is the new sensation in Indian Badminton. Ashmita Chaliha, who is now preparing herself for two back to back international meets in Finland and Netherland, spoke on different aspects of her game during an interaction with The Sentinel. Here is the expert.

TS: You started to play in senior level. How is the experience?

The level of competition is now tougher. I need to stay focus in the game.

TS: You must be satisfied in your recent performances in the senior category.

To some extent yes. I entered into the semi final during the last national championship held in Guwahati. I also won a singles match against Liang Ting Yu, an opponent of Chinese Taipe who is higher ranked then me, in the recently concluded Asia Mixed Team championship in Hong Kong. However I feel, I need to sharp my skill further and have to work more on the court.

TS: What are the areas you need further development?

Two things are very essential in badminton and these are movement on the court and speed. I have been working hard to develop both the skills and also giving effort to bring variations in my strokes.

TS: What are the supports you are getting from the Assam Badminton Association?

It’s huge. The biggest support is the appointment of Indonesian coach Edwin Iriawan in our academy. My game is changed after his arrival. I have learnt a lot of new things from him like how to read the opponent, how to stay calm in the crunch situation in the court during the game etc. I should also mention here that I am getting good support from my parents.

TS: You got the opportunity to work with Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu. How was that experience?

Both are great players. During the Asian Games I got the opportunity to work with them and it’s a unique experience. The biggest thing I have learnt from them is that I have to follow a good schedule and work every aspect of the game including the minor one which most of the players generally ignore in the court.

TS: Share your experience playing against Sindhu in the semifinals of last National Badminton.

The game was a big learning experience for me. At the first game I couldn’t do well but in the second one I got good rhythm and even managed to earn lead also. However it made me excited and I did some unforced errors in the crucial time which cost the game. I feel, if I could keep control on my nerve the game would be more interesting.

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