U Mumba confident
August 24, 2017
Reference: http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/u-mumba-confident/article19550548.ece
U Mumba coach E. Bhaskaran sounded confident of his team cashing in on the home advantage during the Vivo ProKabaddi 2017 Mumbai leg commencing on Friday.
Captained by Anup Kumar, the hosts face varied opponents for six matches back-to-back at the NSCI indoor stadium. “We have prepared for the home stretch and our performance will reflect our planning,” said the coach. The team is placed fifth out of six sides in Zone A, after winning three and losing as many games.
Bhaskaran felt U Mumba suffered defeats due to mistakes at critical junctures, arising due to shortage of experience. “The team has worked on the errors and is ready for the Mumbai leg.” He pointed out that injuries to three defensive players is a problem to be solved.” Surinder Singh’s energy and exuberance in the defence earned him a mention from captain Anup.
The youngster has scored 16 raid points in six appearances and the U Mumba skipper felt his defender can only get better with experience.
U Mumba takes on Jaipur Pink Panthers on Friday night.
Anup Kumar said: “Surinder possesses strength and his energy level is high, so he goes to tackle every raider. We have had to explain to him the virtue of keeping his enthusiasm in check.”
Bhaskaran stressed on close competition among squads in both Zone A and Zone B. “Matches were decided in the finishing 30 seconds a few times this season. It shows that teams are almost on par.”
Raiding is U Mumba strong point, with match-winners Anup, Shabeer Bappu, Kashiling Adake in the squad. The last-named and Nitin Madane, both from Maharashtra, interacted with students from eight city schools as part of Kabaddi Juniors programme. The KJ Championship will be held on Sunday at the ProKabaddi venue.
