CHENNAI: When it comes to combat sport in India, boxing and wrestling are held in high regard. Athletes from these disciplines have won laurels at the biggest stage. There’s another sport which is quietly making its way up. Wushu. A traditional Chinese sport introduced in India in 1989, there are several who have taken it up and tasted success.
Having won medals in international tournaments in recent times, a 16-member Indian team, with four coaches, will face their biggest challenge at the World Wushu Championships in Kazan from September 26 to October 4. In the previous edition, Indians had bagged four medals (three silver and one bronze).
Uchit Sharma, one of the silver medallists in 2015, will be looking for gold this time. “Preparations have been top class. I just want to give my best,” the Meerut lad, told Express.
There are eight Indians in Sanshou category. The rest will compete in the Taolu event. Uchit & Co have had comprehensive training going into this tournament. The national camp was on since May and the team had gone to China for an exposure tour in August. Chinese coach Li Jie, who guided the team then, will be travelling with the team. A perfect addition, according to coach Rajvir Singh. “I have known him for some time. He is a proven coach and a former world champ. It’s a massive boost for the players,” he said.
Ambitions are high after an inspiring effort in 2015. “We narrowly missed out on a gold last time. This time we are hopeful that we can win a gold medal. The players are highly motivated.” Apart from Uchit, Y Sanathoi Devi (52 kg) and Pooja Kadian (75 kg) had won silver medals in 2015. Surya Bhanu Pratap Singh (60 kg) had claimed the lone bronze. Rajvir has high hopes on each of them. He picked Bhanu and Santosh Kumar (56 kg), both in Sanshou category, to make a lasting impression.
“Santosh and Bhanu are unpredictable. They have surprised many with their commendable efforts in the past. Both have improved have plenty of experience too. There are a couple of first-timers, who are no less. It’s going to be interesting,” he assessed.
One of the big prospects, Anjul Namdeo is thrilled to get another shot at the worlds. He won a gold in the recent BRICS Games and is determined to repeat the feat at worlds. “It’s a big opportunity for me to represent the country. It’s a dream for anyone and I’m thrilled. I want to win gold in all my events and make the country proud,” he said.
Team: Taolu: Men: M Gyandash Singh, Anjul Namdeo, Chirag Sharma, Aditya, Sajan Lama; Women: Kh Bidyashwori Chanu, NG A Toshibala, L Sanatombi Chanu. Sanshou: Men: Ramesh (48 kg), Uchit (52 kg), Santosh Kumar (56 kg), Surya Bhanu Pratap Singh (60 kg), Rajinder Singh (90 kg); Women: Y Santhoi Devi (52 kg), K Arunpama Devi (65 kg), Pooja Kadian (75kg).
anmol@newindianexpress.com