Exclusive: Bajrang will help me to prepare for Narsingh, Sushil challenge says Jitender

With Tokyo 2020 postponed, Jitender’s 74kg spot in the Indian team is in danger after two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and 2015 World Medallist Narsingh Yadav are likely to throw their hat in fray for Olympic berth. The 26-year-old grappler, however, is not worried about the new challenge. He credits Bajrang Punia for it.

Bajrang and Jitender are good friends and share an apartment in Sonepat. The duo trains under Shako Bentinidis and have known each other for a long time. Jitender says that they both discuss their training schedules and it is Bajrang who advises him not to pay heed to the news and just focus on training.

In a conversation with WrestlingTV, Jitender talks about how Bajrang helps him in training and tackle Sushil, Narsingh challenge, his feelings for Tokyo postponement, how they are coping up with quarantine and other things.

WrestlingTV: How did you get to know about the Tokyo Games postponement and what was the first reaction to it?

Jitender: Shako broke the news to us. It was disheartening at first as we now have to wait for more time before getting a chance to play at the Olympics. But in a way it is good. The decision has been taken in the interest of people so I completely support it.

WrestlingTV: Since the Games have been postponed, how are you dealing with life in quarantine? Has Shako given you any advice?

Jitender: Yes, the coach has asked us to relax a little now and take care of ourselves since we have more time. We now just do light training to keep ourselves active. Besides that, we cook food, watch movies and read books. Currently, I am reading ‘The Secret’ by Rhonda Bryne.

WrestlingTV: Sushil Kumar and Narsingh Yadav are likely to return for a chance for the Olympic berth? Is there any pressure with two veterans eyeing a return?

Jitender: No, I am not at all focusing on it. Bajrang bhai and I discuss such things. And he keeps advising me to stay focused on training and not to worry about which wrestler is coming or going. It helps me remain calm and focused.

WrestilngTV: Do you think it is fair as you had proven yourself at the Asian Championship already?

Jitender: It is okay. We all dream of going to the Olympics. So there is nothing wrong in asking for another chance. It is very normal and understandable.

WrestlingTV: How do you think to tackle Sushil and Narsingh?

 Jitender: They both are my seniors and I have a lot of respect for them. They have way more experience than I have. Sushil pehlwanji has been my idol for so long and I have learnt so much from him. But I believe that I have more endurance than him which might help me. As for Narsinghji, he has been out of competition for very long, so I do not know much about him and his style of wrestling. But I will just keep practising and hope for the best.

WrestlingTV: What are your shortcomings you need to work on?

Jitender: Before I use to have a slow start as I always waited for the opponent to make the move first. Due to this, I use to give up crucial points early. But Shako and Bajrang have helped me change my game. I need to work more on it.

WrestlingTV: Do you believe the postponement is good for you on a personal level?

Jitender: Yes, with it postponed, I will have more time to practice my techniques and refine them.