India’s relay teams delivered a high-intensity, result-heavy outing at the National Open Relay Competition in Chandigarh, with the men’s 4x400m quartet emerging as the biggest positive in the country’s push towards qualification for the World Relays 2026 in Gaborone.
While there were strong performances across categories, the day also brought setbacks, injuries, and near-misses that underline the fine margins in relay athletics.
Men’s 4x400m: Statement Run Secures Qualification
The highlight of the day came from the men’s 4x400m relay team, as Manu TS, Amoj Jacob, Dharamveer Chaudhary, and Rajesh Ramesh combined to clock an outstanding 3:01.43 to win the event.
This performance is not just a season-opener it is a definitive qualification mark. The timing comfortably surpasses the required standard and is expected to push India into around 16th position in the Road to Gaborone rankings, well inside the top 24 cut-off.
What stood out was the balance across all four legs. Manu TS set the tone with a composed opening, Amoj Jacob maintained rhythm through the backstretch, Dharamveer held his own under pressure, and Rajesh Ramesh delivered a strong anchor to close out the race.
Notably, this performance came without Vishal TK, one of India’s fastest quarter-milers. His inclusion in future lineups could realistically push the team closer to the sub-3:00 barrier—an elite benchmark that would elevate India’s competitiveness on the global stage.
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The women’s 4x400m team of Vithya, Poovamma, Rashdeep, and Vijayakumari clocked 3:32.81 to win their race a respectable performance that improves their standing in the qualification rankings. However, the timing still falls short of the top 24 cut-off, leaving the team outside qualification contention for now. While the run reflects stability and coordination, the gap to qualification remains significant.
For this team, the focus now shifts to finding additional seconds—through both individual improvements and stronger race execution. With the qualification deadline set for April 5, time is limited.
Mixed 4x400m: Holding Position
India’s mixed 4x400m team also delivered a winning performance against Sri Lanka, with Saloni Kumari producing a standout anchor leg. The recently crowned national indoor champion showcased composure and finishing strength to seal the race. However, the overall timing was below optimal standards, meaning India remains around 22nd in the rankings inside the qualification zone, but not securely placed.
The mixed relay continues to be one of India’s more promising events, but improvements in cumulative timing will be necessary to avoid slipping out of contention.
Men’s 4x100m: Setback and Injury Blow
The men’s 4x100m relay campaign suffered a significant setback. Despite qualifying for the final, the Indian team was disqualified following a protest by Maldives.
Adding to the disappointment was a concerning injury to Manikanta Hoblidhar, who pulled his hamstring while running the third leg. In a moment that summed up both resilience and risk, Manikanta still managed to complete the baton exchange before pulling up in pain.
The incident raises immediate concerns about his availability for upcoming races, especially given his importance to the relay setup. With qualification margins extremely tight in the 4x100m, his potential absence could impact India’s chances. The India A women’s 4x100m team comprising Nithya Gandhe, Dhaneshwari, Sudeshna Shivankar, and Tamanna clocked 44.18 seconds to win the event.
While not a record-breaking performance, the timing reinforces their position around 23rd in the rankings, keeping them within the qualification zone. However, like the mixed relay team, they remain vulnerable to being pushed out by faster global performances.
Mixed 4x100m: National Record and Qualification Boost
One of the most significant breakthroughs came in the mixed 4x100m relay. The India A (J) team featuring Gurindervir Singh, Sudeshna Shivankar, Tamilarasu, and Tamanna clocked 42.30 seconds to set a new national record.
This performance comfortably surpasses the previous mark of 43.44 seconds and moves India into 19th position in the rankings, strengthening their qualification prospects. Tamil Arasu’s third leg was particularly noteworthy, providing the acceleration that set up a strong finish. The performance highlights the growing depth and versatility in India’s sprint pool.
Qualification Snapshot After Chandigarh
With the deadline approaching, India’s relay standings now present a clearer picture:
4x400m
- Men: Inside top 24 (approx. 16th)
- Women: Outside top 24
- Mixed: Inside top 24 (22nd)
4x100m
- Men: Outside top 24
- Women: Inside top 24 (23rd)
- Mixed: Inside top 24 (19th)
Final Phase Before Deadline
With April 5 as the qualification deadline, the coming days will be decisive. For some teams, the objective is consolidation; for others, it is a final push. The men’s 4x400m team has effectively booked its place in Gaborone. The mixed and women’s sprint teams are in a holding position, while the men’s 4x100m and women’s 4x400m teams face a race against time.
Chandigarh delivered both breakthroughs and warnings. Now, the focus shifts to execution under pressure because in relay athletics, fractions of a second can define an entire season.
