Want Sindhu to be more aggressive: Coach Irwansyah

Irwansyah Adi Pratama knows a thing or two about delivering under pressure.

- Sandip Sikdar

NEW DELHI: Having been the men's singles coach of Indonesia, where badminton is the most popular and de facto national sport, Irwansyah is not unfamiliar with the demands of the fans and the federation.

After guiding Jonatan Christie and Anthony Sinisuka Ginting to major titles and Olympic medals, Irwansyah has taken over the mantle of guiding India's PV Sindhu back to the zenith of women's singles badminton.

It's only been a week-and-a-half, but Sindhu is listening to the Indonesian's advice, during practice and her matches at the $950,000 India Open here, knowing that Irwansyah can change her fortunes in the new Olympic cycle.

"I do believe Sindhu can reach the top again. That's the reason I'm here," said Irwansyah, who is training the former world champion in Bengaluru and will travel with her for tournaments abroad.