One of India’s star raiders, Rahul Chaudhari, who will be making his Asian Games debut next month in Jakarta, believes the Indian team is the best and should win the kabaddi gold again.
Speaking to The Hindu on the sidelines of the ‘RaidForGold’ initiative of Mashal Sports Pvt Ltd, which sees the players reach out to the fans, 25-year-old Rahul said the best raiders, solid defence and a perfect blend of youth and experience should make the Ajay Thakur-led team a clear favourite.
“Yes, there is no doubt that other countries like Iran, South Korea and Pakistan are improving fast but I still strongly feel that India is still a class apart when it comes to winning major titles,” says Rahul.
“This Indian team is packed with big names who can test the best of the combinations,” he says.
“Definitely, winning the World Masters in Dubai recently was a huge-morale booster and after the first preparatory camp which got over a few days ago, we will soon have another camp in Sonepat before the Asiad,” says Rahul.
“The focus will be just not only on playing to our strengths but also try out innovative techniques in raids and defence to outsmart the opponents,” he said.
“Personally, it is a huge dream for me to come back with an Asiad gold. I don’t think there will be pressure on me to realise this goal for I am only a member of a team which is coached by experienced and knowledgeable Balwan Singh (who led India to three gold in Asiad besides a World Cup gold),” he said.
