Bhavani Devi Leads India’s Largest-Ever Fencing Contingent to Asian Games

India has sent its largest-ever fencing contingent to the Asian Games, with a 20-member squad departing for Japan, led by Olympian C A Bhavani Devi.

The Indian contingent comprises athletes competing in women’s sabre, épée and foil, and men’s sabre and foil. The team left for Japan on Wednesday, while the remaining officials and delegates are scheduled to join the squad on September 23.

The women’s sabre team includes Bhavani Devi, Shreya Gupta, Jeferlin J S and Shruti Joshi. Taniksha Khatri, Mitva Chaudhari, Yashkeerat Kaur and Anupriya have been named in the women’s épée team.

Joys Ashita, N Mina Devi, Kanupriya Chawla and Sonia Devi Waikom will compete in women’s foil.

In the men’s events, Karan Singh, K P Gishonidhi, Lakshay Badser and Vishal Thapar form the sabre team. Sachin, Sanasan Hemash Singh, Adiya and Tejas Patil have been selected for men’s foil.

Anupriya has been named as the replacement for injured women’s épée fencer Prachi Lohan. Her participation is subject to the required approvals from the Indian Olympic Association and the Sports Ministry, according to the team details.

The contingent travelling initially comprises 20 athletes, five coaches and a physiotherapist. The coaching staff includes Vijay Kumar, Gyanendra Kumar, Mohit Ashwini, Sagar Lagu and Tukaram Mehatra. Nikita Pandey is the team physiotherapist.

Bharatji Thakor is the team leader, while Devendra Kumar Sahu and OK Vineesh are delegates.

The fencing squad will complete its final preparations in Japan before competing at the Asian Games. The team’s selection includes athletes across the sabre, épée and foil disciplines.

The 20-member squad marks India’s largest-ever representation in fencing at the continental multi-sport event, according to the PTI report.The Asian Games will bring together fencers from across Asia, with Indian athletes set to compete in their respective individual and team events.

The Indian team’s departure follows preparations for the continental competition, with the athletes and support staff travelling ahead of the remaining officials and delegates. The athletes will continue preparations in Japan before competition.