Squash Update: Coach Malcolm Willstrop urges Indians to give top priority to Squash
Coaching great, Malcolm Willstrop of England believes that Indian squash players beyond talented but states that they need to give more time to the sport to dominate on the world circuit.
Notably known as one of the most respected coaches in the world, Willstrop runs an academy in Leeds. According to Malcolm, Indian players are tied up with academics and sports which quite clearly prove to be a hindrance and hence do not allow their game to
develop. Additionally, the Englishman strongly feels that the players need to give priority to their sport.
Willstrop is currently coaching Saurav Ghoshal, Joshna Chinappa and Dipika Pallikal of India. Furthermore, all three professionals are currently on the professional tour apart from being in the top 50 bracket.
''This dilemma is not only in the minds of the Indians but also the Egyptians. It is between the age of 18-22 when you give total commitment but here I see the players have to manage their college and the sporting career. It has to be either of the two. In
Europe, many players opt out of college to pursue squash. My son (World No.5 James Willstrop) did the same," stated Malcolm.
In addition, Malcolm stated that the half hearted approach towards the squash plays a major role in injuries on the professional tour.
"The injuries are inevitable if you don't give adequate time to the sport. Ramy Ashour (the current No.1) is quite prone to injuries and had to pullout from the Punj Lloyd Masters here. Saurav (No.22) is a bit lucky in this case. He was training under me in
Leeds and also had his college there."
Furthermore, currently coaching upcoming players, Willstrop stated that he spoke to some of the junior players and there is no concept as to how to train. The Englishman went on to say that their parents want them to study as well however, Malcolm believes
that they should be allowed to play provided that they are passionate about the game considering the fact that they can always fall back on academics.
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