Former World youth champion Sarjubala Devi, who has roped in former Asian champion and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Suranjoy Singh as her coach, feels the move has improved her game ahead of some major events this year.
Once known for her fast footwork and flurry of punches, Sarjubala has learnt how to box with purpose. “I was doing things very fast, but Suranjoy Sir asked me to cut down on speed and focus on accuracy,” Sarjubala told Sportstar .
Suranjoy, who has been grooming boxers for his employer Indian Navy, has taken permission to help out Sarjubala under a 50-day programme backed by OGQ.
“Earlier, she was very fast and wasted a lot of energy. She made too much of movement and missed the target very often. If you don't hit the target, you lose energy and get frustrated. I told her to be selective while delivering punches and conserve her energy. We also focused on adding more power to her punches by building strength,” said Suranjoy.
“The aim is to bring quality to her game.”
In order to build her strength, Sarjubala, a 48kg National title holder, is competing in 51kg in the ongoing National women's championship here. This will also give her a chance to have a go at the Olympics.
“I am focusing on doing well in the Commonwealth and Asian Games this year. Then the World championship is at home. For the Olympics, the trials will be tougher as some good boxers, including M.C.Mary Kom, Nikhat Zareen and World youth champion Jyoti, may compete in 51kg.”
Suranjoy said Sarjubala should increase her weight further. “She should go up to 54kg to settle properly into 51kg. Reducing weight is always easier than increasing weight. This will help her add more power.”
The 24-year-old is keen to compete in some major events under Suranjoy's guidance. “I have gained a lot in the last 50 days and there is scope for improvement. I wish to continue with Suranjoy Sir for a longer period,” said Sarjubala.
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