Having played nine matches so far, U Mumba currently occupy the fifth position on the points table of the Pro Kabaddi League 2016. They will return to their home turf from 20 July, something that the whole team will look forward to. The men in orange will play four matches at home. Having had an inconsistent season so far, the home leg comes at a crucial time for last season’s finalists.
Sportskeeda spoke to U Mumba Coach, Bhaskaran Edachery on how he manages his team through the ups and downs. He spoke to us in depth and revealed a lot about how a team functions behind the bright lights.
“See there are eight coaches along with eight assistant coaches in the league. Every coach has a different way of working. I have always ensured that I don’t pressurize my support staff too much. If we wish to learn, we have to learn from the heart. If you try to pressurize anyone, then the person won’t work for himself/herself”.
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“I have never had to abuse any of my players. They never gave me a chance. I am in this field for the last 30 years. I have brought two Asian Games gold medals to the country. But I always try and create a homely atmosphere”, he said.
“The players can talk to me freely like a friend. This makes it easy to point out the weakness in each and every player. During my experience, I have seen people who act like kings and don’t talk to anyone. This will only increase the gap between coach and player. If the player can’t communicate with you, how will he perform?”.
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Bhaskaran spoke about how it’s not just practice that has an impact on a player’s form, “I am very thankful to the management for placing their trust in me. A player’s performance depends on his mood on the day. It’s difficult to put in outstanding performances in every match. It all depends on how the player feels. If he is communicating with his family. If there are issues back home”.
“I try and solve any kind of problem the players might have. Including their home problems. If they have any kind of mental stress, I make sure to talk to them. I am always with them. They communicate with me like an elder brother”, he concluded.
