CHENNAI: In May 2016, the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) went through a major overhaul. Major S Maniam, then the consultant coach, decided to retire after triggering a revolution in the sport in the country.
During his 14-year tenure, he had overseen the rise of Dipika Pallikal, Sourav Ghosal, Joshna Chinappa and also the period when Indians started winning international medals.
His departure prompted national coach Cyrus Poncha and others to rope in Egyptian Ashraf El Karargui. And the move paid dividends. Three Indians finished on the podium in the coveted British Open (Drysdale Cup) earlier this month. Speaking to Express on Tuesday, Cyrus said this was just the beginning.
“We have not achieved our target. But this is a huge step forward for Indian squash.”
Pioneers of the sport, Egyptians are known for aggression and killer instinct — something Indians lacked.
With Ashraf’s arrival, the aim became bringing in these aspects. “We have had a fabulous base all these years. The coaching style needed to be changed and that is what has happened. Focusing on ‘ghosting’ or court movement and other basic techniques, the students were dealing with something new. They embraced the changes,” Cyrus, 41, added.
With Chennai hosting the 19th Asian Individual Championships from April 26, coaches and players are having a busy schedule.
Elite players are given individual attention, and selection will be on the basis of world rankings. Ashraf feels Indians need to put in more time on court.
“When I came, I saw a lot of potential. But I noticed that players didn’t train enough. Despite having skills, they were a little down on the tactical side. It’s not easy to win against world champions. We have to give them confidence and confidence comes from playing games.”
According to Ashraf, there are key areas that need attention. One ideology of his about combining different styles, like playing quick attacking shots and trying to wear the opposition down at the same time.
“Time in squash is very important. I tell them to play early, and put the opponent under consistent pressure. We have focused on different shots, like lobs and drops. But the most important was high pace. The idea is to make your opponent tired.”
Success at the British Open suggests the kids are getting accustomed to Ashraf’s style. Playing against the best has helped them handle pressure.
“After winning, they feel there’s no big difference between Egyptians and Indians. It’s all about mental strength. Self-belief is important. To be honest, I’ve to credit the work done before I arrived. It made my job easier. I just helped them to perfect these techniques,” the coach concluded.
vimalsankar@newindianexpress.com