`At the international level, the guilty have to face consequences’

Popat, from an all-time high of 22 on the IBF ranks, has now plunged to 58 but is confident that she would attain the success she enjoyed in the past. Philosophical as she sounds, Popat remembers a quote she cherishes: “In the hour of adversity be not without hope. For crystal rain falls from black clouds.” This has really helped her come through this rather testing period.

In an interview with The Indian Express, Aparna talked about how she spent the time during the ban and her future plans now. Excerpts:

Q: Could your explain how the ban affected you mentally?
A: Initially the thought of being `banned’ was upsetting. The worrying aspects were the constant slide in the IBF rankings — points that were so hard to earn — and whether the hope and cherished ambition of playing the Olympics will be fulfilled. Reasoning my way out of the dismal mood in due course was the only way. It was a lesson learnt during the three-month “non-competitive lay-off.” Nevertheless, a true sportsman is the one who has it in him or her to get back and attain the goals come what may.

Q: How would you analyse the ban?
A: At the international level, let us face it, the guilty have to face consequences, which is what happened. However, what happens when, despite a briefing, one ends up with a stuffy (blocked) nose, which does not permit to breathe easy — how should one play? In the capacity of a player, sheer desperation and the will to perform makes one run for immediate solutions, which proves costly. Now everyone may have learnt to “stick to the regulations” as the golden rule.

Q: Apart from thinking of the `ban’ all this time, what did you do?
A: I underwent a dental surgery (the wisdom tooth) in Mumbai. It wasfortunate that it came up during this time and not during competition. It seemed like a bad patch, problems turning up one after another. They were handled one at a time.

Q: Support plays an important role at such a time. Who helped you along during this crucial phase?
A: Everyone was supportive. My family, despite being very upset, really stood by me. Prakash (Padukone) uncle, Vimal (Kumar) uncle, Beedu Sir were understanding and encouraged me all through, particularly Prakash uncle who shouldered most of the blame and shielded me right through. BP Bam, who helped with the mental aspect, was wonderful in bringing back my confidence. Fellow players and friends never doubted. It all was very reassuring to have so many people still believe in me.

Q: Could we say that Aparna is ready to play tournaments again? When can we see you in action?
A: Oh yes! The incident is a forgotten one. Playing tournaments is what I eagerly await and I am confident of doing well. As far as the schedule goes, the BPL all-India ranking tournament from August 3-6 would be the comeback meet. As far as international tournaments, the Thailand and Indonesian Opens, as planned initially, did not get off, owing to lack of fitness. The Malaysian and Singapore Opens in August should mark my international return.

Q: Do you hope to make it to the Olympics?
A: The feeling of butterflies in my stomach began the moment I realised that I was on top of the reserves list. The deadline is August 5. Wish me luck. I am keeping my fingers crossed.