New Delhi: Badminton Association of India (BAI) President Dr Akhilesh Das Gupta today announced a cash prize of Rs 40 lakhs for the Indian women’s team that created history by winning the bronze medal in the just concluded 2014 Li-Ning BWF Thomas and Uber Cup Finals.
This was the first instance of India finishing on the podium of this prestigious biennial event and Dr Das Gupta said it was important to reward the players handsomely to not only appreciate their performance but also motivate other players to work hard.
“The women’s team has made all of us proud with the way they played last week. The Badminton Association of India is providing the best of facilities to the players to perform on the international stage and the cash prize is just a part of our commitment towards the players,” Dr Das Gupta added.
The chief architects of India’s bronze medal winning performance – Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa – will receive a cash reward of Rs 5 lacs each while the remaining amount will be distributed among the other players and staff members.
BAI, President, also announced a separate Rs 10 lakhs cash reward for chief coach Pullela Gopichand for being honoured with the Padma Bhushan by the Indian government.
BAI rubbishes Frost report
Dr. Das Gupta has also rubbished reports in a certain section of the media about the possible appointment of Danish singles legend Morten Frost as the head coach and said they had full faith in Gopichand.
Dr Das Gupta said, “Gopichand has been doing a fantastic job as head coach and we have full faith in his abilities to take India ahead on the international scene.
“The BAI is only looking for a specialised doubles coach, which has been a weak link for the country in team events. However, we haven’t zeroed down on any specific names for the same. Whosoever is appointed, will be working directly under head coach P.Gopichand” Dr Das Gupta added.