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Updated Jun 24, 2026 · 22:35
Sports India News Updated Jun 24, 2026

Jyothi Yarraji and Anushka Yadav Shine, Book Asian Games 2026 Spots

Jyothi Yarraji made a stunning comeback after 383 days, winning gold in the women's 100m hurdles at the Inter State Athletics Championships. Anushka Yadav broke the national record in hammer throw with a 67.02m effort. Mohammed Afsal and Dev Meena also qualified for the Asian Games. The championships are being held in Bhubaneswar from June 24 to 28.

Jyothi Yarraji, Anushka Yadav book Asian Games 2026 spots

Bhubaneswar, June 24

Athlete Jyothi Yarraji made an unforgettable comeback after 383 days away from the track that saw her win Gold and run under-13s again at the Inter State Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar.

She completed her run in 13.14 seconds in the opening heats of the women's 100m hurdles, booking her spot for the Asian Games to be held this year from September 19 to October 4.

Mohammed Afsal also met the qualifying mark for the Asian Games in the men's 800m event at the Inter State Athletics Championships, clocking 1:47.69 minutes.

Coming to the hammer throw action, Anushka Yadav booked the Asian Games spot in a memorable way, breaking the national record with a throw of 67.02 m.

Dev Meena also cleared a fine 5.46 m in men's pole vault, rewriting the national record and booking his Asian Games spot.

The Championships is taking place from June 24 to 28 in Kalinga Stadium at Bhubaneswar.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

Anushka Yadav breaking the national record in hammer throw is amazing! 🎉 67.02 m is a massive throw. We need more attention on field events like this. Hope she gets good support and coaching leading up to the Games.

Ravi K

Good to see multiple athletes booking spots for Asian Games. But I wish our federation would focus more on long-term development instead of just last-minute qualifying events. Still, congratulations to Jyothi, Anushka, Mohammed, and Dev! 🇮🇳

Sunil U

Dev Meena rewriting the national record in pole vault is huge! 5.46 m is no joke. These athletes are putting in the hard work despite limited facilities in many parts of India. Kudos to all of them! 🙌

Jyothi Yarraji

As the athlete mentioned, I'm just grateful for the support system that helped me through that long break. Every day was a battle, but the crowd at Kalinga Stadium made it all worth it. This gold is for everyone who believed in me! 💪

Kriti O

Love seeing Indian athletes dominate! But can we talk about how women's hurdles is becoming our strong event? Jyothi is on fire, and with proper training, she can challenge for a medal in Hangzhou. Also, great to see Mohd Afsal qualifying in 800m.

S We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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