Indian Archers Secure Spot in Final at Asian Games 2026
Indian Archers Triumph in Semifinal
In an exhilarating semifinal match, Indian archers Chikitha Taniparthi and Sahil Jadhav showcased remarkable composure, edging out Thailand with a score of 156-155 to advance to the final of the compound mixed team event at the Asian Games 2026. The competition kicked off with India taking a strong lead, as both Chikitha and Sahil scored 10s on their initial shots. Thailand's Kanoknapus Kaewchomphu received a score of 9 after a review, while Peerawat Rattanapongkiat managed an 8. India concluded the first end with a score of 39 out of 40, leading 39-37.
India Maintains Its Advantage
During the second end, Kaewchomphu scored a 9, followed by Rattanapongkiat's 10. However, Chikitha and Sahil responded effectively, allowing India to extend its lead to three points, bringing the score to 59-56.
In the third end, Thailand fought back, with Rattanapongkiat hitting consecutive 10s. Nevertheless, India held onto its lead, with the score at 77-75 halfway through the semifinal.
The fourth end saw both Thai archers scoring 10s, but Chikitha and Sahil matched their performance, maintaining a two-point lead at 97-95.
Thailand continued to apply pressure in the next end, with Kaewchomphu and Rattanapongkiat both scoring perfect 10s. India responded with Chikitha hitting the center and Sahil also scoring a 10, resulting in a score of 117-115 after the third end.
Exciting Conclusion
In the final end, Thailand kept the pressure high, with both archers scoring 10s. Chikitha scored a 9, narrowing India's lead to just one point, but Sahil preserved the advantage with a 10, making the score 136-135. Thailand concluded their final two shots with scores of 10 and 10, totaling 155 points. India needed to score 20 points from their last two arrows to secure victory, and both Chikitha and Sahil delivered under pressure, scoring 10s to clinch a 156-155 win. This victory guarantees India's place in the compound mixed team final at the Asian Games 2026.