Interview with Siyadath Ullah “I feel Sindhu and Srikanth have the maximum possibility of winning the title”

A very humble, kind and supportive national coach only second to Pullela Gopichand in his academy will be seen sporting a regular jersey and a slight smile and you know it’s the Md. Siyadath Ullah. The national player and extraordinary coach has always been behind the covers while the stars rose to fame and gaged immense popularity. Siyadath, is indeed the unsung hero of Indian badminton team, however, his incessant passion, compassion and empathy for players have touched the cockles of our heart.

Our editor speaks to him in a tete-a-tete conversation about BWF World championships, fitness of players, chances of winning and much more in a quick candid chat.

Over the years, India has bagged seven laurels, however, we could never scoop a Gold. What are the chances of current Indian Badminton squad to win a gold at the grand BWF World Championships?

Our current badminton team is pretty strong especially PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, Saina Nehwal, Satwik and Ashwini Ponnappa who have been performing exceptionally well in the last few tournaments. Of course, World Championships is quite a competitive platform for all the best legendary players, it’s not an easy feat to achieve the gold, however, looking at the player’s past few performances, our chances are pretty good. I feel Sindhu and Srikanth have the maximum possibility of owning the title.

And since Saina is also recovering, we can expect some power-packed performance from her too. Satwik-Ashwini delivering really well on court may bring some trophy too.

BWF World Championships is taking place at China which is a solid home ground for the top professional badminton players like Lin Dan, Shi Yuqi, Chen Long etc. What do you think are the threats or challenges for Indian badminton players in contrast?

Home ground is always an advantage for athletes, however, lately the spike in player’s performance has jacked up and we can totally expect some great fighter spirit. Sai, Prannoy among others are more confident and strategically prepared. For every match, the players will switch their style and strategy at par to the opponent. The only benefit Chinese players will get is the local support.

What do you think of the current fitness status of the Indian badminton players performing at the BWF World Championships?

There are no such problems or health issues with Indian badminton players, they are in good shape and shall maintain the same throughout. Prannoy and Saina who suffered injuries are also recovering and getting back stronger.

Lee Chong Wei is not a part of the BWF World Championships because of some serious health issue. Will that be a blessing in disguise for the Indian Men’s Singles?

Yes, of course, we all know that Lee Chong Wei is a true legend, he’s a 35-year-old athlete and has been delivering amazing performances in the last couple of tournaments too. While we will be missing his nerve-wrecking game as a badminton viewer, it will be great for Men’s Singles to avoid the intrusion of an innate winner.

Share a message for the Indian badminton team at the BWF World Championships to boost their morale.