Sense And Sensibility!

As for his long term goals, Lakshya Sen — the World No. 108 in badminton — is focussed on qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

- Ashwin Achal

As Lakshya Sen warms up to face Alap Mishra in the men’s singles final of the Yonex­Sunrise all­India Senior ranking badminton tournament in Bengaluru, there are a few familiar faces in the crowd.

Playing on his home court, the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy (PPBA), Lakshya glances towards the sidelines and smiles at PPBA founder and stalwartPrakash Padukone, even as PPBA co­founder and chief coach Vimal Kumar gives him some last minute tips.

Also in the viewing area are Chirag Sen and D. K. Sen, Lakshya’s elder brother and father. There is clearly no dearth of support for Lakshya, helping the shy teenager along in his journey.

On the court, Alap is no match for Lakshya, losing in straight games. The match has added significance for the Sen family, as Alap had defeated Chirag in the quarter­final round earlier.

Once victory is sealed, a few eager children run up to Lakshya to get pictures taken with him. Lakshya obliges, and heads to the academy training area to start his stretching routine. Padukone drops in to congratulate his ward, as does Vimal. Chirag and his group of friends sit close by as Lakshya puts in work with the PPBA physio.

For someone who is yet to achieve great things on the senior international circuit, some may find it odd to see Lakshya being treated like a star. Not so for Padukone, Vimal and the other bigwigs instrumental in shaping Lakshya’s career. There is no doubt in their mind that Lakshya is a special talent, and they are doing everything in their power to ensure that he lives up to his potential.

Early successes prove that Lakshya has what it takes to justify the immense faith shown in him. This year, he has won gold in the Badminton Asia Junior Championship, silver in the Youth Olympics, and bronze in the prestigious World Junior Championships.