New Delhi: Pressure of facing experienced opponents used to get over his nerves in his early days, but promising Indian grappler Amit Kumar says with more international exposure he has now transformed into an attacking combatant.
"I used to get nervous while facing experienced wrestlers initially. But with international experience under my belt I have become more confident and offensive. I always look to win points now," said Amit, who has London Olympics experience behind his back.
With the international wrestling body (FILA) making attacking style of play more rewarding, the 19-year-old is confident of winning more laurels at the international arena.
"I think the rule change is a very positive step towards making wrestling more entertaining. It will benefit wrestlers who are more attacking. No wrestlers would be able to run away after securing a lead as he will be penalised for passivity," the 55kg freestyle wrestler said.
The senior wrestlers are yet to participate in a competition since massive changes were introduced in the sport that faces axe from the Olympic movement.
Amit won a gold in the Asian Championships here in April, where the hosts decided to rest their Olympics stars Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt.
Touted as India's future medal prospect in Olympics, Amit has set his eyes on the Senior World Championships in Hungary from September 16-22.
"I know there would be expectations. But I am training hard in the practice sessions in Sonepat (Haryana). My goal is to win a medal for the country in the world championships," Amit, who is the youngest wrestler ever to represent India at Olympics, said.
Amit has proved his mettle and clinched gold medals in World Cadet, Asia Cadet and Asian Junior level as well.
With the Commonwealth Championships rescheduled a week ahead of the world meet in September, the Indian contingent would get a good warm-up for the second biggest event, staged annually, in the sport.
"We will compete under new rules at the Commonwealth Championships. And I am sure we are going to benefit from it ahead of the all-important competition," added.
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