Aman Sehrawat and Sujeet Kalkal Shine at Wrestling Trials

Lucknow, Aug 4 (PTI) - Paris Olympic bronze medallist Aman Sehrawat showcased formidable performance at the World Championship selection trials on Monday, while Sujeet Kalkal displayed exceptional counter-attacking prowess to secure his spot in the men's freestyle 65kg category. The trials were held ahead of next month's World Championship in Zagreb, Croatia, which will mark only the second international event for Sehrawat since his Paris bronze in 2024.

The 22-year-old Sehrawat, who recently claimed a bronze at the Mongolia Ranking Series event in June, appeared in exceptional form during the trials. In his opening bout against Sumit, the only points he conceded were push-out points, as his masterful double-leg attacks dominated the match, resulting in a win by technical superiority in the first period. The final against Rahul was equally one-sided, with Sehrawat prevailing by technical superiority without allowing a single point. His strategic head-lock and swift right leg-attack ensured a comprehensive victory. "I feel I am back to my best," Sehrawat told PTI. "I understand that I made a few mistakes in Mongolia, but I take that defeat in stride."

Meanwhile, the 65kg competition was intensely contested, with Sujeet Kalkal emerging victorious. The young wrestler from Charkhi Dadri has displayed remarkable transformation over the past year. His airtight defense turned around difficult positions, with notable victories against Anuj (10-0) and Vishal Kaliraman (8-4). Kalkal is steadily claiming his position in the 65kg class, particularly after Bajrang Punia ceased competing in the category. "We have worked on his strength for a year now, and his defence was always good," shared his father and coach, Dayanand Kalkal.

In other categories, Deepak Punia locked his place in the 92kg class, quickly defeating Manjeet (SSCB) and then overpowering Haryana's Sachin. Mukul Dahiya, a qualifier for the U20 World Championship, earned a spot in the senior 86kg category with impressive victories over Sachin Jaglan and Ashish. Amit, another standout wrestler, secured his place in the 79kg category with a dynamic performance despite suffering a knee injury.

In the 74kg category, Jaideep secured his position with a victory despite a knee injury. Rohit transitioned to the 70kg category, overcoming Sidharth and Sagar before receiving a walkover from Ashwani. Additionally, wrestlers Udit (61kg), Vickey (97kg), and Rajat (125kg) earned their places in the freestyle squad.

India coach Vinod Kumar praised Kalkal and Udit, stating, "Sujeet beat Russian and Kazakhstan wrestlers in Hungary. He's progressing rapidly and shows promise as an Olympic medal contender. Udit is transitioning well from juniors to seniors, showing no intimidation by bigger names."

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