Sheetal Sharma to lead Indian Rugby Sevens Women’s Team at the Asian Games
Rugby India has announced the final team representing India at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, where Sheetal Sharma will captain the women’s Rugby Sevens team.
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Rugby India has officially unveiled the final roster of athletes who will represent the nation at the 19th Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, from September 23 to October 8.
Despite being ranked 7th among the participating teams, the Indian team is determined to demonstrate their prowess on one of Asia’s grandest sporting stages.
Rahul Bose, the President of the Indian Rugby Football Union, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, attributing their readiness to the dedicated coaching staff who have meticulously readied the players both mentally and physically for this unique opportunity. He called upon the nation to rally behind the women athletes, becoming the driving force behind their quest for success.
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The finalized Rugby Sevens squad comprises the following players: Sweta Shahi, Sandhya Rai (Vice Captain), Mama Naik, Kalyani Patil, Vaishnavi Patil, Lachmi Oraon, Dumuni Marndi, Hupi Majhi, Shikha Yadav, Tarulata Naik, Sheetal Sharma (Captain), and Priya Bansal.
Sheetal Sharma, the captain of the India National Women’s Rugby Team, acknowledged the tremendous responsibility they carry, representing the hopes of the entire nation. She emphasized their unwavering determination, instilled during the intense 40-day training camp. Sharma lauded the exceptional coaching and top-notch facilities, essential for athletes preparing for a tournament of this magnitude.
Sheetal Sharma previously led the team to an impressive performance at the Borneo 7’s in Malaysia, where they secured a commendable fourth-place finish.
Ludwiche Van Deventer, the head coach, described the journey leading up to the Asian Games as both challenging and exhilarating. He commended the passion and relentless dedication of each player, acknowledging that it paved the way for this remarkable opportunity to represent their country on the Asian stage.
India’s campaign in Rugby Sevens begins on September 24, commencing with matches against Hong Kong China in the morning session and Japan in the afternoon session. Placed in Group F alongside defending champions Japan, Hong Kong China, and Singapore, the Indian team aims to secure one of the top two positions in their group to advance to the semi-finals.
-IANS