Badminton India News: Why hasn't HS Prannoy won a Super title yet?

    Prannoy, who defeated the world number four Chou Tien Chen at the Malaysian Super 750 on Thursday, has been improving steadily but has not won a Super title yet

    HS Prannoy HS Prannoy

    His fitness is the primary reason, but his abilities as a big match player often give him the upper hand, as Anup Sridhar, who trained Prannoy for 10-12 weeks in the 2021 autumn. He is unaffected by big names, reiterated by players like Chen Long, Lin Dan, Chong Wei, and Viktor Axelsen. Despite putting up a consistent form, he has been unable to match his compatriots Kidambi Srikanth, Lakshya Sen and Sai Praneeth, all of whom have won titles. 

    Anup continued, "If Prannoy plays at his pace, he starts 50-50 against any top player. Nothing is lacking." Against Chou, Prannoy nailed the wild drift at the Axiata in Kuala Lumpur, where the shuttle is fast from one side and slowed from the other. He might have to be more aggressive against Jonatan Christie, according to Siyadath. To outclass the Indonesian, Pranmoy must pick the fast end if he wins the toss prepping for the second half of the third game. The Indian then needs to increase his pace in the opener, even if it means slowing down in the second and then pushing hard in the third.

    The world number eight defeated him for the Swiss title earlier. Anup suspected that Pranmoy lacked the stamina to pocket the match because his tactics were applaudable. So a title breakthrough is needed if he wants to move to the Top 10 or Top five. Christie identifies as an all-rounder and is known for backing opponents into deep corners. Prannoy can use his back corner to save himself, but his command over the forehand back corner will be tested. 

    What Anup thinks about Pranmoy's growth

    At Bangalore, Anup figured that Prannoy hadn't lost his skill before he struck form in 2022, including the Thomas Cup high-pressure match as opposed to popular belief. He ultimately became leaner, and his game was rhythmic, believed Anup. With six-corner routines and 3-on-1 defence, Prannoy improved. His reflexes also radiated more energy which enhanced his defence. Anup knows that it is difficult to get the point out of Prannoy. "When he attacks well and gets his length, he's unstoppable," boasted Anup. 

    In the next match, he needs to break Christie's defence. He additionally needs to monitor his defence and rhythm, which will be essential to get past the Indonesian, who leads 5-3 in their career head to head. Two of Prannoy's three wins were born out of three-setters. Pranmoy experiences dip after big wins that have become a pattern since the 2017 season. He now has to work upon his weaknesses and be more resilient.