Aichi-Nagoya, 26 September (H.S.): Indian archer Dhiraj Bommadevara produced a stellar performance in the men’s recurve qualification at the 2026 Asian Games, setting both an Asian and national record with a score of 698 points. His performance earned him the top seeding in the individual event and played a key role in helping India secure third place in the men’s team qualification.

Dhiraj accumulated 698 points from 72 arrows in the qualification round. Neeraj Chauhan finished 20th with 676 points, while Yashdeep Bhoge placed 25th with 665 points. The three Indian archers combined for a total of 2,039 points, securing third place for India in the team qualification.

The qualification results will be used to determine the knockout-round draws and seedings. India will enter the men’s team event as the third seed, while Dhiraj will be the top seed in the individual competition. No medal is awarded for scores achieved during the qualification round; the medals will be decided in the upcoming knockout-stage contests.

Women’s Compound Team Finishes Second

In the women’s compound qualification, Chikita Taniparthi topped the individual standings with 705 points. Jyothi Surekha Vennam finished 13th with 699 points, while Prathika Pradeep placed 20th with 695 points. India’s team score stood at 2,099 points, earning the country second place in the team qualification.

At the time of filing this report, India had won 26 medals at the Asian Games, comprising two gold, 11 silver and 13 bronze medals. India is currently placed 12th in the medal standings.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar