Shanghai, China: With less than five months to go before the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, the Indian archery contingent enters the Archery World Cup Stage-2 under a cloud of uncertainty — not because of lack of talent, but due to absence of leadership.
India’s top recurve and compound archers landed in Shanghai this week for the second stage of the World Cup circuit, a key benchmark event ahead of National Trials scheduled in Sonipat from May 15. However, the lack of a full-time head coach remains a glaring gap in the build-up.
coaching vacuum leaves team “directionless”
Despite weeks of negotiation with high-profile names — including compound specialist Sergio Pagni and renowned recurve coach Kisik Lee — no permanent coach has been appointed due to disagreements over remuneration. As a result, archers continue under their personal coaches for major events. Officials admit this “reflects a lack of structure in an Asian Games year”.
Recourse Recurve Struggles After Mexico
India’s recurve squad had a disappointing Stage-1 campaign in Mexico, where none of the leading names — Deepika Kumari, Atanu Das, Tarundeep Rai, Dhiraj Bommadevara and Ankita Bhakat — reached the medal rounds. Deepika exited in Round 2, while most others bowed out by Round 3 or team stages.
One coach—with insights into the team’s mood in Shanghai—commented, “Our archers are skilled, but without strategic direction and stable coaching, it’s tough to peak at the right moment.”
Compound Hopes Shine Brighter
Despite recurve uncertainties, India’s compound archers delivered encouraging signs in Shanghai qualifiers:
Ojas Deotale topped India’s performance, finishing 7th overall in individual qualification with a strong score around the high 700s.
The men’s compound team secured third seed heading into elimination rounds.
The women’s compound squad ended qualification in fifth place, while the mixed team secured sixth seed.
These results offer a brighter outlook for India’s medal chances, especially as compound has been a historically stronger discipline in recent seasons.
Stiffer Competition in Shanghai
The field assembled in Shanghai is significantly stronger than Mexico. South Korea — a perennial archery powerhouse — has brought a full team including multiple Olympic gold medallists. Other Asian nations like Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Saudi Arabia are also using the event as preparation ahead of the Asian Games
Road Ahead: Trials & Beyond
The Indian squad will carry out selection prospects in Sonipat later this month, where performance in Shanghai will likely be a key reference point. With limited time before the Asian Games, federation officials are under pressure to fast-track a coaching resolution and strengthen preparation ahead of the seasonal climax.
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