New Delhi, May 30: Renowned Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat secured a commanding 7-1 victory against Jyoti in the women’s 53-kilogram category during the Asian Games selection trials held on Saturday. This match took place just a day after the Supreme Court and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) intervened, allowing her to compete.
Initially, the WFI had restricted Vinesh to the 50-kilogram category. However, following the intervention of WFI President Sanjay Singh, the federation reversed its decision, permitting her to participate in the 53-kilogram trials.
In her opening match against Jyoti, Vinesh started cautiously, employing standing wrestling techniques. She earned her first point through a push-out. Although she attempted a double-leg attack, it did not yield any points. The match shifted in Vinesh’s favor at the beginning of the second period when she was placed on the activity clock, prompting her to accelerate her pace.
Vinesh converted a right-leg attack into a takedown, establishing a 3-0 lead. She showcased her defensive skills by thwarting Jyoti’s strong leg attack. Capitalizing on a counterattack, Vinesh executed two scoring moves rapidly, extending her lead to 7-0. However, in the final moments, Jyoti managed to score a push-out point, preventing a clean sweep.
With this victory, Vinesh will face Nishu in the second round, who advanced by defeating Riya via fall. If the matches proceed as scheduled, an exciting final between Vinesh and star wrestler Anshu Malik is anticipated. However, Vinesh is likely to encounter Meenakshi Goyat in the semifinals.
On the other hand, Anshu Malik made a powerful start, defeating Tannu in just 34 seconds based on technical superiority. The young wrestler quickly trapped her opponent in a ‘fitle’ move, achieving a decisive victory after spinning her five times.
Notably, Vinesh’s participation in the trials was made possible after dramatic developments over the past 48 hours. On Friday, the Supreme Court ruled that she could compete in the Asian Games selection trials. A bench led by Justice PS Narasimha stated that considering Vinesh’s numerous successes for the country over the years, she deserves this opportunity.
Initially, the WFI had decided that Vinesh could only compete in the women’s 50-kilogram category. Vinesh opposed this decision, accusing the federation of discrimination. After negotiations and intervention from federation leaders, the WFI changed its decision on Saturday morning, allowing her to participate in the 53-kilogram trials.
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