Prakash Padukone Advocates for Mental Training in Indian Sports

Prakash Padukone expressed his disappointment over Lakshya Sen's performance in the bronze medal play-off at the Paris Olympics. He emphasised the need for Indian athletes to handle pressure better, take responsibility, and deliver results after receiving support. Padukone suggested that India should focus on mind training for its athletes to help them cope with pressure situations.

Sen lost to Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia in a 71-minute match, despite having an early advantage. Padukone noted that Sen needs both mental training and game improvement. "He needs to work a little bit, when he's playing with the wind. Everybody has a problem but I think he has more problem than others," Padukone said.

Focus on Mind Training

Padukone highlighted the importance of sports psychology, stating that many top players lose not due to technical or physical shortcomings but because they can't handle pressure. "Olympics is all about handling pressure so all the more important that we pay more attention to mind, do meditation, yoga," he added.

He also mentioned that shooter Manu Bhaker performed well because she wasn't under pressure. According to Padukone, favourites often struggle due to high expectations, whereas unexpected medalists face less pressure.

Developing a System

Padukone suggested creating a system similar to China's, where success doesn't rely on one player. He stressed the need for multiple lines of players, akin to cricket teams with main, A, under-19, and under-17 teams. "We cannot remain satisfied just having one player. We need to focus on the next line, maybe even the third line," he said.

He also pointed out that India has roped in several foreign coaches and suggested bringing in foreign sports psychologists as well. "It's high time we have foreign sports psychologist also," he said, adding that this should be a continuous effort rather than a short-term fix before major events.

Accountability and Responsibility

Padukone urged players to be more accountable and responsible after receiving support. "A little more responsibility, a little more accountability. Not just ask for whatever you ask for. Once you are given that, you also have to be accountable," he stated.

He believes that players need to learn to take responsibility and make fewer mistakes. "Mistakes will happen... but Lakshya probably needs both. A little bit of mind training and the focus on mind training plus a little bit of practice and a little better control he needs to work on the court as well," he added.

Future Prospects

Padukone disagreed with comparisons between Indian badminton and tennis, where there is a perceived vacuum after stars like Leander Paes and Sania Mirza. He acknowledged that while some players are young, there is talent in men's singles with Lakshya Sen and Priyanshu Rajawat showing promise.

However, he noted a significant gap in women's singles and stressed the need to identify young talent early. "In men's singles, Lakshya is still young... But women's, I see there are young girls... Maybe some of them are 13, 14, 16, 17," he said.

Padukone concluded by saying that identifying and nurturing talent from a young age is crucial for future success in Indian badminton. He believes that combined efforts from players and federations can help bridge gaps and build a stronger pool of athletes.