Pune, 30 June (MTNews): In a disappointing turn of events, the Nagaland Wushu Association team has been eliminated from the 32nd National Championship held at Pune’s Chatrapati Sports Complex. The team’s hopes were dashed as two key players dislocated their shoulders and were unable to continue their matches.
According to an update from the Nagaland Wushu Association, five players represented Nagaland in various categories for the sanda events, including Rakesh Mahato, Mankho T Konyak, Kethosilie Kuosa, Atokivi T Chishi, and Keyisuiding Lungalang. Gabriel Khamo and Azhove Resu served as the coach and manager, respectively.
Nagaland’s best fighters, Kethosilie Kuosa (52kg) and Atokivi T Chishi (60kg), unfortunately suffered shoulder dislocations during their second-round matches. Despite winning their initial bouts, they had to withdraw from the competition due to their inability to continue.
Meanwhile, Rakesh Mahato (70kg) and Keyisuiding Lungalang (75kg) reached the pre-quarterfinals round but fell short of qualifying for the national games as they narrowly acceded defeat.
Mankhoi T Konyak (56kg) faced challenges due to some questionable decisions made by the referee, resulting in his tournament journey coming to an end, the update said.
The 32nd National Championship witnessed the participation of more than 1500 athletes from 45 associations across the country. The event, organized by the Wushu Association of India and hosted by the Maharashtra Wushu Association, showcased remarkable talent and fierce competition.
The Nagaland team is scheduled to depart from Pune on Saturday and return to Nagaland on Tuesday.