“Company law states that a director can sit on 10 boards. Yes, you can only be the managing director of one company but you can sit on the board of other companies. Cross-organisational expertise is valued in corporate circles, why should sports be any different? The Sports Ministry’s proposed move won’t stand legal scrutiny. For instance, if Pullela Gopichand steps into bowling administration, I would welcome him because he will bring with him the knowledge gained from badminton," Chidambaram explained. Chidambaram was of the view that sport would be best served if the government stayed away from administrative affairs.

During its annual general body meeting here on Saturday, the TBF amended the constitution that was in accordance with the guidelines of the Sports Ministry. The latest rules state that the president can hold office for a maximum period of 12 years with or without a break and office-bearers will relinquish their posts on turning 70.

The Federation also decided to retain national coach Allan Chia while finalising the calendar of events, including three National meets and many overseas tours, for the season.    “Alan will work with the federation and will help us broad-base the game,” noted Chidambaram. “The players are all doing well in practice sessions though in competitions, they tend to tighten up under pressure. They have hit a plateau. Hopefully, Allan will help them move on from there,” he added.

“I am worried about the women, though, because we are not getting any fresh talent. I want to send a few juniors to Korea for training and talks are on,” pointed out Chidambaram, who stressed on three Ts -- Travel, Training and Tournaments.

Coach Chia said more youngsters needed to embrace the sport while TBF secretary R Kannan called upon state associations to buckle up and promote tenpin bowling.