India’s latest wrestling sensation, Antim Panghal, who happens to be a World Championships bronze medalist from 2023, has decided to withdraw from the Asian Wrestling Championships in Bishkek. The tournament that starts on April 11, where Antim was scheduled to take part in the 53 kg category.
Meanwhile, she is the only Indian wrestler so far to have booked the Paris 2024 berth so far. “She is focusing on her preparations for the Paris Olympics. We are also looking to go abroad for a training stint but nothing is decided as of now,” Antim’s coach Vikas Bharadwaj told the Hindustan Times.
Antim, Missing in Action for Long
The Asian Wrestling Championships would have been great practice for Antim, who last played a match in October. IN fact, she went on to miss the nationals in February as well, and was given a direct berth to the competition. Not just that, the youngster also missed the selection trials in Patiala.
Meanwhile, in the absence of Antim, now Anju, who won the trials in her category, will go to Bishkek. Now, the tournament-bound players will leave for the venue on April 9. On the other hand, Vinesh Phogat and a few others will be in Bishkek too, for the Asian Olympics Qualifiers, that is scheduled to take place on April 19.
Editors pick
