India’s para archery campaign in Gwangju, South Korea, received a major boost as Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar powered their way into the Compound Mixed Team bronze medal match at the ongoing World Para Archery Championships.
The Indian duo showcased resilience, consistency, and remarkable composure under pressure to emerge as serious medal contenders.
Round of 16: Narrow but Convincing Start
India began their knockout campaign against Chinese Taipei. In a tense battle where precision meant everything, Sheetal and Toman held their nerve to register a 156–151 win, a scoreline that reflected their control throughout the match.
Quarterfinal: Statement Win over Australia
Up next were Australia, and this was the match where the Indian pair stamped their authority. Both archers combined seamlessly, executing their shots with rhythm and confidence to take the contest 152–148. The win not only secured India’s entry into the semifinals but also boosted their morale heading into the toughest stage.
Semifinal: Heartbreak Against China
In the semifinals, India faced an experienced Chinese team. Despite matching their rivals arrow for arrow, the Indians fell just short, losing 154–157. The defeat was disappointing, but the narrow margin highlighted India’s competitiveness against one of the strongest contingents in the field.
The Bronze Medal Clash Awaits
The defeat in the semifinals pushed Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar into the bronze medal playoff, where they will face Great Britain. The match is scheduled for 12:06 PM IST on September 27, a contest that promises high intensity and drama.
Victory would not only secure India a place on the podium but also add to the growing stature of para archery in the country, where athletes like Sheetal Devi have become household names for their resilience and inspiring stories.
Sheetal Devi: The Face of Resilience
At just 16, Sheetal Devi has already made headlines as one of the youngest para archers in the world. Overcoming physical challenges with determination and spirit, she has become an inspiration not only for aspiring para athletes but for Indian sport as a whole. Her partnership with Toman Kumar, a steady performer for India, has created a duo capable of taking on the best in the world. India’s rise in para archery has been steady, with strong showings at recent international events. The presence of Indian teams in medal matches is a reflection of improved infrastructure, coaching, and exposure provided to para athletes.
With the Paralympics in Los Angeles 2028 on the horizon, performances like these are crucial in building momentum.
For Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar, the bronze medal match is more than just about finishing on the podium. It represents a chance to:
- Prove India’s competitiveness against established archery nations like Great Britain.
- Reward the growing para sports ecosystem in India.
- Inspire the next generation of athletes who see in them the embodiment of possibility.
As India prepares for the clash against Great Britain, expectations are high. A win would mark another milestone in India’s para archery journey, further boosting the country’s medal hopes at global competitions. Regardless of the outcome, the duo’s run to the bronze medal match has already highlighted the depth and potential of Indian para archery.
On September 27 at 12:06 PM IST, all eyes will be on Gwangju as Sheetal Devi and Toman Kumar aim to script history.
