In a spectacular show of talent at the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023, India's Naorem Roshibina Devi secured her spot in the semi-finals of the Women's 60 kg Wushu (Sanda) event, ensuring another medal for the country. Displaying impeccable skills, Devi dominated her quarterfinal bout against Kazakhstan's Aiman Karshyga, claiming victory with a substantial points difference. The achievement comes as no surprise as Devi, a previous bronze medallist at the Asian Games, also clinched gold in the same category at the 2019 South Asian Games.
On the men's front, Wushu enthusiasts witnessed Surya Bhanu Partap Singh's stellar performance. Singh progressed to the quarterfinals, defeating Islombek Khaydarov of Uzbekistan in a gripping 60 kg Sanda pre-quarters match. The Indian Wushu exponent emerged triumphant, sealing the deal in three rounds with a 2-1 score. Singh, already decorated with a bronze from the previous edition of the Asian Games, boasts multiple accolades, including gold from the 2016 South Asian Games and two bronze medals from the World Wushu Championships.
However, it wasn't smooth sailing for all Indian contenders. Vikrant Baliyan faced a setback in the 65 kg category. Up against Indonesia's Samuel Marbun, Baliyan found himself on the losing end of a close 1-2 margin in the pre-quarterfinals. Despite giving his best, Baliyan struggled to match Marbun's swiftness and dexterity. Yet, Baliyan's track record is nothing short of impressive, with a bronze from the 2019 World Wushu Championships and gold from the 2019 South Asian Games to his name.
With these performances, India continues to solidify its standing in Wushu at the Asian Games, holding promise for more medals and accolades in the coming days.
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