India Eyes Glory at World Athletics Relays in Botswana

A 21-member Indian team, led by Animesh Kujur, will compete in five events at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana. The decision not to send a women's 4x400m team focuses attention on mixed relays. AFI has governance plans to boost state performances and host major future events.

A team of 21 Indian athletes, spearheaded by star sprinter Animesh Kujur, is set to compete in five events at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, on May 2-3. The Indian squad, consisting of eight women, will focus on strategic participation amidst a backdrop of targeted athletic excellence.

According to AFI's Adille Sumariwalla, India qualified for six relay events. However, the decision to exclude the women's 4x400m team was made due to injuries, shifting focus to the mixed relay where better prospects are anticipated. The men's 4x100m and 4x400m events are expected to deliver strong performances.

AFI is vocal about concerns over state performances and aims to uplift sports governance with initiatives like constituting ad-hoc committees in Arunachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Moreover, there are ambitions to host the Asian Relays in 2027 as part of India's growing commitment to athletic events.

(With inputs from agencies.)