India’s compound archery contingent delivered a commanding performance at the Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Shanghai, with both the men’s and women’s teams booking their places in the finals.
In a significant achievement, both teams will face Mexico in their respective gold medal matches scheduled for May 10.
This result continues India’s strong season in compound archery, marked by consistency in qualification rounds and resilience in knockout stages.
The Shanghai event, featuring top global talent, has further underlined India’s growing stature in this discipline.
Dominance from the Start: Qualification Rounds
India started the campaign with authority. The men’s team, consisting of Abhishek Verma, Rishabh Yadav, and Ojas Deotale, topped the qualification round with a combined score of 2134. Their total came from three strong individual scores: Abhishek matched his personal best with 714, Rishabh followed closely with 713, while Ojas added 707.
The women’s team—comprising Madhura Dhamangaonkar, Jyothi Surekha Vennam, and Chikitha Rajendra—also finished first in qualification, scoring 2114. Madhura led the way with 708, equaling her personal best. Jyothi and Chikitha backed her up with 705 and 701 respectively.
The Indian mixed team of Madhura and Abhishek, based on their top qualification scores, also emerged as the top seeds with a combined score of 1422.
Knockout Performance: Steady and Precise
Men’s Team Path to Final
India’s men’s team opened their knockout phase against Great Britain in the quarterfinals. Displaying control and precision, they posted 239 to Great Britain’s 232—maintaining consistent arrow groupings throughout the match.
In the semifinal against Denmark, India faced a stiffer challenge. The match was neck and neck, but the Indian trio held firm to edge out the Danes 232-231. Abhishek, a veteran of many finals, led the team with calm under pressure, while Rishabh and Ojas ensured the margins were protected.
They now face Mexico in the final on May 10 at 8:10 AM IST.
Women’s Team Path to Final
The Indian women’s team mirrored their male counterparts in both quality and outcome. They faced Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals and secured a 239-232 win, one of their highest scores in recent memory.
In the semifinal, the match against Great Britain went down to the wire. India emerged victorious by a single point, 232-231, after a clutch final end. Madhura’s consistency and Jyothi’s finishing strength were crucial in sealing the win.
Their final is scheduled against Mexico on May 10 at 7:32 AM IST.
What These Results Mean
These dual final appearances underscore the depth in Indian compound archery. Both teams topped the qualification charts, suggesting not only good form but also a psychological advantage over opponents heading into elimination rounds.
Abhishek Verma continues to remain a key figure for Indian archery. His leadership is pivotal as India navigates a busy international calendar.
Alongside him, Rishabh Yadav has steadily emerged as a consistent scorer, and Ojas Deotale brings youthful momentum, having already made a name at world events.
On the women’s side, Madhura Dhamangaonkar’s recent form stands out. Her qualification score of 708 equaled her personal best, showing she’s peaking at the right time.
Jyothi Surekha Vennam, one of India’s most reliable compound archers, complements the team with her experience. Chikitha Rajendra has also performed solidly under pressure, justifying her selection.
Mixed Team Outlook
While the mixed team has yet to begin their knockout campaign, they enter as the top seeds. Abhishek and Madhura’s combined score of 1422 set the benchmark. Given their current form and chemistry, they are strong contenders for another podium finish.
Both Indian compound teams will now aim to convert their strong run into gold medals. Mexico will be a formidable opponent. The Mexican compound archery program has shown depth and medal potential in recent years, especially in team events.
However, India enters the finals with two key advantages: momentum from close semifinal wins and the confidence from topping the qualification rounds. Their ability to maintain composure under pressure, as seen in both 232-231 semifinal wins, may prove decisive.
With the finals approaching, India stands on the brink of a historic double. Success here would provide a strong statement ahead of the upcoming stages of the World Cup and further cement India’s reputation in compound archery.
Final Fixtures – May 10, 2025
- Women’s Compound Team Final: India vs Mexico at 7:32 AM IST
- Men’s Compound Team Final: India vs Mexico at 8:10 AM IST
Both matches will be broadcast globally and are key fixtures to watch for fans of Indian archery.
