After a brief intermission, Dhaka resumes hosting international badminton tournaments with a renewed spirit. Following the UNEX-Sunrise International Challenge, which included 17 countries, a new series begins today with an increased number of participants. The previous tournament saw Al Amin Jumar and Urmi Akter Rupa triumph in the mixed doubles category, bringing national attention to Bangladesh’s badminton prospects.
However, victories are only the first step. Sustained success requires continuous preparation and access to elite resources. Jumar and Urmi are advocating for long-term, structured training programs for both themselves and the wider national team, aiming to establish a culture of consistent performance.
The Bangladesh Badminton Federation has welcomed this proposal. Officials have announced plans to provide extended training periods, better facilities, and the appointment of a high-calibre long-term coach. These measures aim to ensure athletes can maintain competitive standards without relying solely on short-term tournament camps.
While the South Asian Games camp was short-lived due to postponements, it nonetheless offered valuable experience. The players’ performances in the Dhaka-based challenge tournaments reflect the benefits of preparatory training. Yet concerns remain regarding the long-term efficacy of sending players abroad to countries like Australia, Canada, and Thailand. Foreign opponents have access to superior coaching and facilities throughout the year, while Bangladeshi players gain intensive exposure only during tournaments.
Urmi Akter remarked after a final-round loss to Malaysian opponents, “They train continuously under top coaches, and their support systems, sponsorship, and facilities far exceed ours.” Both she and Jumar stress that consistent long-term camps are necessary to sustain performance levels, even amidst scheduling uncertainties.
Financial limitations remain a significant hurdle. A single box of shuttlecocks costs approximately 6,000 BDT, allowing for only two to three days of practice—underscoring the difficulty of self-funded training in such an expensive sport. Institutional support is, therefore, critical.
Federation Secretary-General Russell Kabir Sumon stated, “Although our camp was organised at short notice, our players achieved impressive results. Expanding structured training opportunities, along with international exposure, is crucial. Securing a long-term coach will allow continuous participation in tournaments and naturally yield results.”
The UNEX-Sunrise Series Tournament kicks off today at the Shaheed Tajuddin Indoor Stadium in Paltan, featuring a prize pool of USD 5,000. Returning players, along with new competitors from Kazakhstan and select Indian participants, promise a high-intensity tournament, providing Bangladesh’s shuttlers with both challenges and opportunities to shine.