Attacking play would be the norm in PBL: Vishnu

The Kerala-born Vishnu, who represented Pune Pistons in the first edition of the league (named Indian Badminton League then), has been roped in as the coach of Chennai Smashers. 

Vishu, who started his coaching career four months back, is over the moon about his new assignment. “Gopi sir (Pullela Gopichand) asked me to support Chennai Smashers this year and I am happy as the owners have acknowledged it. The players are not new to me as many of them are from the Gopichand Academy and that makes my job a tad easier. With the league being played in a 11-point format, attacking play would be the norm and I can vouch for the Smashers’ brilliance in attack,” Vishu said. 

Having plied his trade for Pune in the inaugural season, Vishnu is not new to the nuances of the league. “Since I have been a player, I know how the players react in match situations. I hope to use that experience and grow richer (in terms of knowledge) with the league,” he added. 

PBL would also be a different on-court stage for Vishnu as he would be coaching his wife, Arundati Pantawane, for the first time. “It would be interesting for both of us. She practises with Sindhu in the academy and both of us are looking forward to it,” Vishnu added.