Asian Games: women lead India’s push for wrestling medals

India’s women wrestlers, possessing a lot of experience, are expected to put up a better show in the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

In the previous edition, three Indian women had bagged bronze medals. Of the three, two-time World championships medallist Antim Panghal (53kg) is returning with the hope of changing the colour of her medal. Barring 17-year-old Dipanshi (50kg), others in the squad are experienced. Former Asian champion Manisha Bhanwala (57kg) and World under-23 bronze medallist Priya Malik (76kg) are among the leading medal contenders.

Former Asian silver medallist Nisha Dahiya (68kg) and 2024 Worlds bronze medallist Mansi Ahlawat (62kg), who has recovered from an injury, are also capable of making the podium. “We expect tough competition from China, Japan, the Koreas and Central Asian countries. But we will win medals,” women’s coach Virender Dahiya said.