‘Wrestlers must improve tactically’

Nobody has pushed Bajrang Punia towards excellence ‘on the world stage like Emzarios Bentinidis did.

- Avishek Roy

Shako’ as Bajrang’s coach for four years was like his shadow, even travelling from Georgia to India when the world was reeling under the coronavirus pandemic, taking special permission from the two governments.Bajrang told Shako, “Don't take the risk in such a situation,” but Shako would not leave his ward alone to prepare for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

Under Bentinidis, Bajrang was a different beast on the mat. In those four years, he was the wrestler to beat in 65kg. From Asian Games gold (2018) to three World Championships medals and an Olympic bronze, Bajrang realised his full potential during that period. And he knew what Bentinidis brought to the table. Therefore, when his contract came up for renewal, Bajrang told the federation in clear terms that he needed him back.

Bentinidis, 51, will return to India, this time as coach of the Indian men's freestyle team, and he can't hide his excitement. During his stay here, the Georgian got familiar with the local culture, even picking up words. “Bhai (brother)” is a common preface when one is talking to him.