JAMMU: Young speedball prodigies from Jammu and Kashmir brought international laurels to the nation after securing fourth position in the highly competitive Junior Men’s Doubles category at the 37th World Speedball Championship concluded in Egypt.
Representing the Indian national contingent in a marquee tournament featuring top-tier international athletes from over 15 nations, Sayam Kashyap of Jammu Sanskriti School and Aadrit Gupta of GD Goenka Public School delivered remarkable technical prowess and court agility, narrowly missing a podium finish against global heavyweights.
Adding to India’s strong showing, national team head coach and veteran international speedball player Sunny Nanda clinched fifth position worldwide in the elite Senior Speed Solo event, registering an extraordinary score of 240 shots within two minutes.
Upon their arrival in Jammu, the four-member Indian squad and coach were accorded a warm reception by the J&K Sports Speedball Association, sports administrators, and community leaders. Prominent socio-political leader Ritika Trehan, alongside the faculty and managements of Jammu Sanskriti School and GD Goenka Public School, felicitated the young athletes for placing J&K prominently on the international racquet sports map.
Reflecting on the competitive standards in Egypt, Coach Sunny Nanda noted that the tournament presented intense physical and mental challenges against established European and African powerhouses. He revealed that bolstered by their standout performances in Cairo, the Indian players have earned qualification berths for the prestigious Poland International Open Championship, slated to be held from January 25 to 30, 2027.
The J&K Sports Speedball Association stated that the global recognition will serve as a catalyst for grassroots sports development, encouraging younger athletes across schools and academies in Jammu and Kashmir to pursue competitive racquet disciplines.
Published by True Roots Media