Excitement grips the Indian athletics fraternity following the announcement of a 12-strong team for the Asian Cross-Country Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, on February 21. AFI President Bahadur Singh Sagoo revealed the lineup, with athletes heading out Wednesday to chase regional supremacy.
Senior men’s 10km anchor Harmanjot Singh from the Army sets the tone. Under-20 men’s 8km features Aditya Gurjar, Abhinandan Suryavanshi, and Karan Ramesh Saranade, injecting fresh energy.
Women’s senior 10km boasts Nandini Gupta, Ujala, Sonia, and Munni Devi. The under-20 6km women’s relay includes Varsha, Mani Yadav, Sonam Kumari, and Arju, ready to tackle the course.
The team emerged from the grueling 60th National Championships in Ranchi, Jharkhand, involving 35 state squads. RSPB reigned supreme, securing senior men’s and women’s team crowns through collective brilliance.
Individual highlights included Harmanjot Singh’s (SSCB) 30:33 victory in senior men’s 10km and Nandini Gupta’s (RSPB) 35:42.28 win in women’s 10km. Uttar Pradesh clinched under-20 men’s team gold (22 points); Maharashtra took women’s (21 points).
AFI selected top-four placers per category, prioritizing performance under pressure. Recent form shines from the Tallahassee, Florida trials on January 10 for 2026 Worlds.
Gulvir Singh’s 30:39 earned 40th in men’s 10km. Mixed 4x2km relay with Ajay Saroj, Pooja, Yunus Shah, and Ankita hit 24:13 for 12th overall.
Heading to Japan, this diverse team blends veterans and prospects. Cross-country’s unpredictable nature tests adaptability, but India’s recent nationals dominance suggests medal contention. Their journey underscores a rising tide in Indian distance running, with eyes on continental podiums and beyond.