CHENNAI: When B Sumeeth Reddy and Manu Attri became Olympians in 2016, it was quite an accomplishment. Though shuttlers have been faces of non-cricket sports in India, no men’s doubles pair had managed to rub shoulders with the best on the biggest stage. It didn’t go unnoticed, as many commended them for punching above weight.Fast forward to now, their ambitions are unwavered. With the focus once again on singles stars, the duo are determined to script a happy chapter at the upcoming World Championships starting in Glasgow, Scotland on August 21.
They are one of the nine Indian pairs in fray, three each in men’s, women’s and mixed. Having endured a tough start to the year, they won the Lagos International and reached semifinals at the US Open.
“The Olympic year was good. Post Rio, I got injured and was out for about a month. Things were tough after that. We are in better shape now. Having done well in Lagos and US, I believe we stand a good chance,” Manu told Express from Hyderabad.
“Though Lagos and US Open are not Super Series level, it’s just one rung below. It’s very competitive. We’re satisfied with the build-up,” said Sumeeth.The duo endured a tough phase when Manu got sidelined. “It was disturbing to see others play while you could just sit and watch,” Manu recalled.
The 24-year-old learnt lessons away from the court. “Injuries are part of the game and looking back, I took it positively. I had the time to just sit and think, reflect on my game and devise plans.”
Sumeeth will also be hoping for good returns in mixed doubles, with the experienced Ashwini Ponnappa. It’s been about eight months since they paired up and he has no problems handling two events.
“Juggling doubles and mixed doubles hasn’t been an issue. Tactics are different, but I manage both without hassles,” the 25-year-old said.
Sumeeth revealed it might be the last time that he is fighting alongside Ashwini. “She has started playing with Satwiksairaj Rankireddy. It’s not final, though. She is much experienced. I’ve learnt a great deal. Whatever input she gives has helped me. I’m happy we managed to beat some top players. It gave me confidence that I can excel in mixed doubles.”Manu is focussed on one event. The Meerut lad has the big picture in mind. “We have the technique to beat top players, but lack consistency. If we maintain that, we can rise in rankings and achieve greater things.”
With ambition and hunger for success, Manu and Sumeeth will hope to steal more limelight — dominated by singles at the moment — in the days to come.
anmol@newindianexpress.com