The selection of the Indian archery team for the highly anticipated Asian Games 2023 has concluded, with notable successes and disappointments marking the outcome. The national trials held in Sonipat determined the composition of the team that will compete in various prestigious events, including the rescheduled Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year.
Also read: Asian Games 2023: Indian Badminton Squad Unveile Get a Glimpse of Potential Athletes.
In a turn of events that raised eyebrows, former world No. 1 Deepika Kumari failed to secure a spot in the Indian archery team for the Asian Games 2023. Despite her prolific track record, the trials proved to be a challenging hurdle for Kumari. She finished seventh during the initial phase of trials in Kolkata and followed up with a ninth-place finish in the women’s recurve trials in Sonipat. Unfortunately, this was not sufficient to earn her a place in the core team.
On the other side of the spectrum, Atanu Das, Kumari’s husband, managed to secure a spot in the Indian archery team for the Asian Games. Das, who had faced exclusion from the team in the past, capitalized on this fresh opportunity. His determination and performance during the trials earned him a place in the continental showcase. Das made a triumphant return to the team after his previous appearance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and subsequent victories, including a gold medal at the 2022 National Games.
The Indian archery team’s composition for the Asian Games includes a mix of established talent and rising stars. The men’s recurve team boasts the likes of Dhiraj Bommadevara, Atanu Das, Mrinal Chauhan, and Tushar Shelke. In the women’s recurve category, Bhajan Kaur, Prachi Singh, Ankita Bhakat, and Simranjeet Kaur secured their positions through their impressive performances.
The compound teams are headlined by Abhishek Verma in the men’s category and Jyothi Surekha Vennam in the women’s division. Their expertise and experience are expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of success at the Asian Games.
While Deepika Kumari’s absence from the team for this event might be disheartening for her supporters, there remains a glimmer of hope. Kumari will have the opportunity to strive for a place in the Indian archery team for the Paris 2024 Olympics through the open trials scheduled for January next year. This prospect offers her another chance to showcase her remarkable skills and regain her spot at the pinnacle of international archery.
In summary, the Indian archery team for the Asian Games 2023 comprises a diverse array of talented archers who have earned their positions through rigorous trials and commendable performances. While the exclusion of Deepika Kumari is a surprising twist, the team’s overall composition reflects the depth of talent in Indian archery, as they gear up to compete on the continental stage in Hangzhou.
