PETALING JAYA: Datuk Misbun Sidek has been left impressed after his first day at the Hatsun Badminton Centre in Thiruthangal, Tamil Nadu, India.
The 65-year-old will work alongside head coach Rajinikanth to help polish young talents at the academy, which was established in 2018.
While there are no big Indian badminton names attached to the centre, the academy is driven by a dedicated group of passionate coaches, eager youngsters keen to make their mark in the sport.
The centre boasts a sprawling 10-acre compound equipped with excellent facilities, including a running track.
Though relatively new compared to other academies, their founders were inspired by P. Gopichand’s Hyderabad centre and their role in producing future champions for India.
For Misbun, the academy, which is located about 70km from Madurai, offers the perfect platform to pass on his vast experience.
“Today, I met all the coaches, checked out the place and assessed the players. The academy is big and well-equipped, with facilities such as a swimming pool, gymnasium, hostel and sports science support,” said Misbun.
“The academy has already produced several young winners and they have big ambitions.”
Among their standouts is 22-year-old Rithvik Sanjeevi, who won the men’s singles title at the 2024 Odisha Masters.
Misbun added that the coaches shared their plans and challenges, explaining that some players had stagnated and they were keen to elevate the standard of play.
He hopes to inject fresh ideas into the coaching and training programme.
“I like the people and the place, but it’s still early days. Let me settle down first and see how much I can help. It’s exciting because I’ve always loved working with youngsters and raw talents who have ambitions,” he said.
This marks Misbun’s first coaching stint abroad, having agreed to the arrangement after being impressed with the academy’s set-up. He will be based in India on alternate months under a short-term agreement.
