The Indian golf team for the Asian Games 2023 has been finalized, featuring a mix of experienced players and promising young talents. The team selection process saw some notable performances and omissions, setting the stage for an exciting competition in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8.
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Leading the women’s team is the accomplished golfer Aditi Ashok, who narrowly missed out on a medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Aditi Ashok, based on her world ranking, received a direct entry into the team, showcasing her reputation as one of India’s top golfers.
Joining her are two impressive young talents from Bengaluru: 20-year-old Pranavi Urs and 16-year-old Avani Prashanth. Both Urs and Prashanth earned their spots through the Indian Golf Union’s selection trials, where they tied for first place with impressive scores of 10-under 206. Their inclusion highlights the depth of young talent in Indian women’s golf.
Notably absent from the women’s team are Tvesa Malik, who secured a direct entry last year but failed to make the cut this time, and Diksha Dagar, a Tokyo Olympian who finished fifth in the trials with a score of three-under 213. Their absence underscores the intense competition within the Indian women’s golf scene.
In the men’s category, the Indian team boasts a formidable lineup. Anirban Lahiri and Shubhankar Sharma, both established names in Indian golf, received direct entries based on their rankings. Lahiri, who was part of the Indian golf team that won silver at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, brings valuable experience to the squad.
Joining them are Khalin Joshi and SSP Chawrasia, who secured their places through trials. Khalin Joshi emerged as the top performer with an impressive score of 13-under 203, while SSP Chawrasia finished second with 11-under 205.
Rashid Khan, a silver medalist from the 2010 Asian Games, was unable to secure a berth in the team after finishing fifth in the trials with a score of six-under 210, reflecting the fierce competition among Indian male golfers.
The Asian Games have been a historic platform for Indian golf, with all previous medals being won by men. This year’s squad carries the hopes of the nation to add to that tally and potentially see women golfers shine on the continental stage.
Indian golf team for the Asian Games 2023 presents a promising blend of experience and emerging talent, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive performance in Hangzhou, China. Aditi Ashok leads the women’s team, while Anirban Lahiri, Shubhankar Sharma, Khalin Joshi, and SSP Chawrasia make up the men’s team.
The absence of some high-profile names and the inclusion of young talents reflect the evolving landscape of Indian golf. Fans eagerly await their performance as they aim to make history at the Asian Games.
