Kolkata Thunderbolts ready for PVL opener, says coach Naser Shahnazi

Kolkata Thunderbolts head coach Naser Shahnazi praised his team's preparation ahead of their Prime Volleyball League opener. He lauded captain Ashwal Rai's leadership and expressed excitement about the squad’s young Indian players, confident of mounting a strong title challenge

Hyderabad: With Season 4 of the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia having begun with great fervour, and Kolkata Thunderbolts all set to kick off their campaign in a day’s time, head coach Naser Shahnazi expressed immense gratitude for the club’s comprehensive support and lauded the unique, fast-paced nature of the league, confirming that the team is ready to compete for the title.

The Iranian coach, who is in his first year with the club, highlighted the short duration of the league as a key feature that generates immediate excitement and intensity, setting it apart from international competitions.

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“The first difference between Prime Volleyball League and other leagues in the world is that the duration of the league is short. It’s only one month,” the coach noted. “This short time makes the league more exciting as the players and the teams are pumped up and want to achieve the championship in the limited time, which is good.”

The coach also lauded captain Ashwal Rai, who is also a key player in the Indian national volleyball team, for his leadership and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver.

“I’m happy that my captain Ashwal has all these characteristics. He manages the team very well and maintains good communication between the coaching staff and the players,” the coach said, referring to the captain’s strong personality, volleyball knowledge and communication skills.

Further speaking about the change in Ashwal’s on-court position, he said.

“He has changed his position this time from middle to opposite. I hope he can do his best in this new role and take the trophy.”

The development of young Indian players remains a priority for the coaching staff. The coach expressed excitement about working with the team’s emerging talent, seeing them as the future of Indian volleyball.

“I am so much happy that I am working with these young talented players… they are young, they are full of energy. They like to learn many things, which is great. Their energy gives us energy to work and I hope I can teach them good things, good techniques and in future they can do great for their national team,” he stated.

The coach was quick to credit the entire club management and staff for providing a seamless environment, which he said is crucial for peak performance.

“I have to say thank you to our club because this is the first year that we are in India. But this club provided us everything—the facilities, hotel, training camp, everything was perfect,” the coach commented.

“I am so much happy to work with this team and this club, as the players are so talented. They are great people inside and outside the game. They also understand the game of volleyball, and the technique and tactics of the sport,” he concluded.

Kolkata Thunderbolts will begin their contest for the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia title on Sunday.