Interview | We are on the right track, we just need to keep our navigation bar very clear on where we want to go: Massimo Costantini Premium

Massimo Costantini, Indian National team coach, emphasizes player development and unity for upcoming World Cup and Championships.

Massimo Costantini, the head coach of the Indian National team, is a patient man, explaining the nuances of shots to the players during their matches at the WTT Star Contender Chennai recently.

Never the one to raise his voice to the players, the Italian almost always makes his point clear in a soft manner.

In his third stint with the Indian team, Costantini is clear in what he wants to achieve: provide the Indian team with a great environment.

With the World Cup in Macao (China) from April 14 to 20 and the World championships (individuals) in Doha from May 17 to 25, the 66-year-old former paddler has his work cut out.

He spoke to The Hindu about the Indian team’s performance in the recently concluded WTT Star Contender Chennai, Sharath Kamal’s retirement and the need to have more National camps for women. Excerpts:

We have to prepare for the World Cup and the World Championships. The Worlds is an individual event, so it will be good for each and everyone.

For me, every tournament is a test at least. It’s like an engine. If something is not working well, you need to adjust the brakes, change the tyres. It’s a continual adjustment. And that’s the job that I’m doing.