New Delhi, July 14: Indian wrestlers have been highly impressive at the global level in run up to the Tokyo Olympics and at least three of them will be genuine medal contenders at the Games. India will field seven wrestlers, headlined by the spunky Vinesh Phogat and a very strong Bajrang Punia. Then there are others like Ravi Dahiya and Vinesh Phogat, who have made a strong presence felt at the international level. Here’s a look at their strengths and weaknesses.
Bajrang Punia (65kg)
Strength: Stamina, power, attack
Weakness: Leg defence, conceding points early.
Major Result: three-time World medallist, seven-time Asian medallist
Threat: Takuto Otoguro (JPN), Gadzhimurad Rashidov (RUS), Tulga Tumur Ochir (MGL), Iszmail Muszukajev (HUN)
Bajrang has been a major force at the world stage and has stood on podium in each of his last 10 international tournaments, winning six gold medals, three silver and one bronze.
Always thriving on superior stamina, leg defence has been an issue for Bajrang for long. He has worked on this aspect of his game. He is competing in one of the most competitive weight categories that has at least 6-8 wrestlers, who are all medal contenders.
Ravi Dahiya (57KG)
Strength: Ability to launch relentless attacks
Weakness: Can be unsettled with early point-scoring moves
Major Results: 2019 World bronze medal, Double Asian champion
Threat: Zavur Uguev (RUS), Suleyman Atli (TUR), Yuki Takahashi (JPN)
A product of Chhatarsal stadium, Ravi Dahiya is a slow starter but begins to dominate the contest as the clock ticks away. He possesses immense strength, stamina and is technically sound.
Vinesh Phogat (53kg)
Strength: Power, tactical acumen
Weakness: Losing points on counter-attack Major Results: 2019 World bronze winner, 2021 Asian champion
Threat: Mayu Mukaida (JPN)
The way Vinesh has dominated the circuit, she is easily a strong gold contender in her category. The change in weight category has worked well for her as she now has more strength in her muscles.
She is a tactically superior wrestler, has immense power that makes her one of the favourites. However, she can concede points on counter-attack, the only area of concern in her game. (PTI)
