The Big Fix...

The Big Fix...Even as the shadow of corruption looms large once again on India’s pet sport, we see success stories being scripted in other games. Rathore wins gold in Bangkok,Anju Bobby George wins silver in Monaco, Bhupati wins the mixed doubles at the US Open. Whistleblower on India’s sporting dichotomy

Win dose 2005 Have we found the winning credo at last? Whistleblower asks winners...
Is India finally on a winning spree?
Rathore: ‘‘Yes, I think Indians are finally on a winning spree — this proves that any obstacles that existed were in the mind. If you have determination, no barrier is strong enough for you. You’re as good as you think you are.’’
Anju: ‘‘It’s been a golden week for Indian sports, everybody seems to be winning. With Indians working harder and believing in themselves, the results are beginning to show. But it’s an illusion that we’re finally catching up with the world — a handful of winners can’t make India a giant in sports.’’
Bhupathi:‘‘We’re winning because we deserve to win. India is a treasure trove of sporting talent; it was a matter of time before we trumped the world. However, it’s a case of too little too late. We could have done a lot better.’’
Have we acquired the winner’s mindset?
Rathore:‘‘To an extent, we’ve shrugged off our inferiority complex and have got the confidence to stare into the opponents’ eyes. I have the killer instinct thanks to my military background. I admire Indian winners who’ve waded through difficulties and kept fighting, losing, fighting, winning. We should never give up.’’ Anju:‘‘Yes, we have acquired the killer instinct and credit for this must go to the hard work of sportspersons. The confidence you have is always proportionate to the hard work you’ve put in. The killer instinct is just a corollary.’’
Bhupathi: ‘‘Obviously, we’ve got past a defeatist mindset. We’re more confident and the world is our playground. Expect more winners in the future.’’
To produce more winners, India needs...
Rathore: ‘‘...a broad-based sports policy to look into problems faced by sportspersons; more learning opportunities and facilities for youngsters; a transparent selection process; material support. While importance should be given to big names, talented newcomers can’t be ignored.’’ Anju: ‘‘India lacks proper training facilities — that’s why I train abroad. Besides, we need good coaches, physios, world-class tracks, corporate and government support. Finally, equal importance should be given to all sports, not just to one or two showpiece games.’’
Bhupathi: ‘‘Kids need to start early. We should motivate them by providing them with the right ambience and facilities.’’