Saina Nehwal to split with Pullela Gopichand

Olympic bronze medalist Saina Nehwal is set to split with her long time coach Pullela Gopichand.

The partnership between Saina and Gopichand brought almost 20 international titles for India’s number one badminton player.

The 24-year-old Hyderabadi now has decided to shift to Bangalore to train with former India coach Vimal Kumar.

“Yes, I am going to Bangalore tomorrow. I want to train with Vimal Kumar Sir. His tips during the Uber Cup were quite helpful. But after the Asian Games I will come back here. I just want to try and train with him. I hope it will be helpful for me. I told Gopi Sir during the World Championships and he said OK,” Saina said.

Her loss in the quarterfinals of recently concluded World Championship made Saina to consider changing the coach. The sources in the industry said that the rise of PV Sindhu and K Srikanth under Gopi’s coaching made her insecure and she decided to change the coach.

Although Saina said that she will train with Vimal Kumar for 15 days ahead of the Asian Games but it can be seen as permanent arrangement.

• About the Author

About Sprightly Spirit

“I dare do all that may become a man. Who dares more is none”. And all, may be. It may be the vigor. Or the spirit. Or the courage to avoid being “politically correct” or bent. And, ban all averse with immaculate overture of graciously fathomable words firm in views. Subtle. Justifying the undying conscience. Values. Knowledge. And, dares to stay true. True to own. True to the world. And, to the words. With a dream in eyes it exists. In you. In me. In all. The sprite that never shies away. The spirit that never dies!