INDIA’S para badminton star Pramod Bhagat said athletes have remained focused on their preparations despite the controversy surrounding the selection process for the Asian Para Games and exuded confidence that the country would surpass its previous medal tally. India won 21 medals, including four gold, six silver and 11 bronze, in para badminton at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Para Games. India have sent a 168- member athlete contingent to the games in Nagoya, Japan, with Manasi Joshi and Thulasimathi Murugesan already assuring a medal in badminton women’s doubles SL3-SU5. Bhagat, the Tokyo Paralympic gold winner and a six-time world champion, said the athletes remained focused on their preparations and were determined to deliver their best for the country. “The preparation for para badminton has been very good, and the players have worked extremely hard. Everyone has put in the effort required to perform at the highest level, and I am confident that we will surpass our previous medal tally,” Bhagat told PTI. “I believe the team has the potential to deliver a strong performance and bring more medals home for India.”

 

The build-up to the showpiece was heavily impacted by fierce selection disputes across disciplines such as shooting, cycling and badminton, particularly the allocation of bipartite quota entries. “From the athletes’ perspective, our focus has remained on training and preparing for the competition,” Bhagat said. “The discussions surrounding the selection process, particularly the bipartite quota entries, have been a separate matter. The athletes who have qualified through the established qualification process have worked extremely hard to earn their place at these Games. “We have continued with our preparations and have not allowed these developments to distract us from our goal. “Everyone is focused on representing India with pride and delivering the best possible performance for the country.” Asked whether the expectations would put him under pressure, Bhagat said his experience of competing at the highest level helped him remain focused. “I don’t feel any pressure. I have represented India at the highest level for many years, and I understand what it takes to perform at major tournaments. My focus is on my preparation, my game and giving my best on the court,” he said.