Former world championship medallist Deepak Punia shines in a new weight category, while Olympic medallist Aman Sehrawat and Asian champion Sujeet Kalkal successfully defend their places in India’s Asian Games wrestling squad.
The Asian Games wrestling selection trials in Lucknow witnessed a mix of expected dominance and inspiring comebacks, with Deepak Punia emerging as one of the biggest success stories of the event. The former world championship silver medallist secured his place in India’s Asian Games squad after making a successful transition to the 97kg freestyle category.
Deepak, who has traditionally competed in the 86kg division, was forced to move up in weight after an injury disrupted his preparation and weight-management plans. However, the change proved to be a blessing in disguise. Displaying confidence and attacking intent throughout the competition, he defeated several strong opponents before overcoming U-23 Asian champion Vicky Hooda 7-3 in the semifinals. Deepak then capped off an impressive campaign by beating Jointy Kumar in the final to claim the 97kg berth.
The trials also reaffirmed the supremacy of Paris Olympic bronze medallist Aman Sehrawat in the 57kg category. Aman looked in complete control and wrapped up the final with an emphatic 11-1 technical superiority victory over Rahul, ensuring that he remains India’s top choice in the weight class heading into the continental showpiece.
At 65kg, Asian Championships gold medallist Sujeet Kalkal continued his consistent rise in Indian wrestling. In a closely contested final, Sujeet edged past Vishal Kaliramana 2-0, successfully retaining his place in the national squad.
The 74kg division produced one of the surprises of the trials after highly-rated contender Abhimanyou exited early in the competition. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Sagar Jaglan fought his way through the draw and defeated Jaideep 8-6 in an entertaining final. Elsewhere, Mukul Dahiya secured the 86kg spot with a 4-2 victory over Amit, while Rajat Rahul booked his ticket in the heavyweight 125kg category after defeating Dinesh 10-6.
The Greco-Roman section also concluded with several wrestlers confirming their places in the national setup. Sumit (60kg), Deepak (67kg), Aman (77kg), Sunil (87kg), Nitesh (97kg) and Deepanshu (130kg) emerged victorious in their respective categories.
The trials not only finalized India’s core wrestling contingent for the upcoming Asian Games but also highlighted the depth of talent within the country. Deepak Punia’s successful move to a heavier division, combined with the continued excellence of Aman Sehrawat and Sujeet Kalkal, offers encouraging signs for India’s medal ambitions on the continental stage.
Key Results
57kg Final: Aman Sehrawat bt Rahul (11-1)
65kg Final: Sujeet Kalkal bt Vishal Kaliramana (2-0)
74kg Final: Sagar Jaglan bt Jaideep (8-6)
86kg Final: Mukul Dahiya bt Amit (4-2)
97kg Semifinal: Deepak Punia bt Vicky Hooda (7-3)
125kg Final: Rajat Rahul bt Dinesh (10-6)
India’s Men’s Freestyle Wrestlers Qualified for Asian Games
57kg – Aman Sehrawat
65kg – Sujeet Kalkal
74kg – Sagar Jaglan
86kg – Mukul Dahiya
97kg – Deepak Punia
125kg – Rajat Rahul
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