A powerful 73-member Indian team, led by javelin superstar Sumit Antil, was announced on Wednesday for the upcoming World Para Athletics Championships. However, the squad announcement was marked by the surprising omission of decorated high jumpers Mariyappan Thangavelu and Sharad Kumar. The championships will be held in Delhi from September 27 to October 5, marking the first time the event has been hosted in India.
The absence of three-time Paralympic medallist Mariyappan and two-time medallist Sharad was a major talking point. A para athletics coach explained that neither athlete participated in the mandatory selection trials. Mariyappan reportedly pulled out to spend more time adapting to a recent change in his jumping technique, while Sharad is focusing his training on the Asian Para Games next year.
Paralympics Committee of India (PCI) President Devendra Jhajharia expressed immense optimism for the historic event, stating that it is set to be the "biggest one in the history of the championships," with athletes from 107 countries confirmed to participate. He also set a high bar for the home contingent, declaring, "India had won 17 medals in the 2024 edition in Japan. We will win more medals this time."
Paris Paralympics club throw gold medallist Dharambir Nain and double bronze-winning sprinter Preethi Pal have been given the honour of leading the Indian team at the opening ceremony. The duo will be the official flag bearers for the host nation on September 27 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The team and its new jersey were unveiled at a ceremony graced by actress and PCI brand ambassador Kangana Ranaut. With a strong squad led by defending world champion Sumit Antil and the passionate backing of a home crowd, India is aiming to make its first-ever home World Para Athletics Championships the most successful in its history.
