India’s junior compound archers are continuing their dominant run at the Asian Cup Leg 2, securing strong positions in the individual finals of both the men’s and women’s events following impressive performances on Tuesday.
In the men’s individual compound category, top-seeded Kushal Dalal showcased his formidable form, defeating Bangladesh’s Himu Bachhar 147-143 in a thrilling semifinal clash. This victory guarantees Dalal at least a silver medal and sets him up for a shot at gold in the final. Dalal had previously demonstrated his prowess by topping the qualification round with an outstanding score of 714 points. India’s 10th seed Sachin Chechi, however, faced a tough challenge in his semifinal, losing to Australia’s Joshua Machon. Chechi will now compete for the bronze medal against Himu Bachhar.
The women’s individual compound event promises an all-Indian final, assuring both gold and silver medals for the nation. Top-seeded Shanmukhi Naga Sai Budde and second-seeded Tejal Salve will go head-to-head for the title. Shanmukhi, who qualified with 706 points, confidently overcame Indonesia’s Yurike Nina Bonita Pereira with a score of 145-139 in her semifinal. Tejal, with a qualification score of 700, displayed equal brilliance, defeating Malaysia’s Fatin Nurfatehah Mat Salleh 147-142 to set up the highly anticipated all-Indian showdown.
These strong individual performances follow a stellar showing in the qualification rounds earlier in the tournament, where Indian compound archers notably set two Under-21 world records: one in the women’s compound team event and another in the mixed team event. India’s junior archers are clearly making their mark on the international stage, consistently delivering top-tier results.
