The Archery Premier League is gearing up for its exciting first edition, and India’s top archers are ready to take center stage. With names like Deepika Kumari, Abhishek Verma, and Jyothi Surekha Vennam leading the charge, the tournament promises high-octane competition and world-class performances.
The league will unfold over 11 action-packed days in October at the Yamuna Sports Complex in New Delhi. Not only will India’s finest archers participate, but top-ranked international players will also compete, divided among six franchises. This blend of local and global talent is set to make the event a must-watch for sports enthusiasts.
Deepika Kumari, a four-time Olympian and current World No. 3 in recurve archery, is one of the biggest names in the lineup. Joining her is Dhiraj Bommadevara, who recently represented India at the Paris Olympics and holds the World No. 14 spot. On the compound archery front, the dynamic duo of Rishabh Yadav (World No. 9) and Jyothi Surekha Vennam (World No. 3) will showcase their skills. Meanwhile, veteran compound archer Abhishek Verma (World No. 10) adds further star power.
The tournament’s selection process ensures only the best compete. The Archery Association of India (AAI) has categorized archers based on their World Top 10 and Top 20 rankings, as well as performances in AAI’s recent selection trials. This meticulous approach guarantees a fiercely competitive field.
Recurve archery fans will see seasoned Olympians like Tarundeep Rai and Atanu Das in action, alongside rising talents such as Ankita Bhakat and Bhajan Kaur, both of whom were part of India’s Paris Olympics squad. The men’s recurve lineup includes Neeraj Chauhan, Rahul, and Rohit Kumar, while the women’s section features Gatha Anandrao Khadake, Sharvari Somnath Shende, and Basanti Mahato.
In the compound category, archers like Aman Saini, Ojas Pravin Deotale, and Prithika Pradeep are set to dazzle spectators. Their precision and consistency will undoubtedly elevate the tournament’s intensity.
AAI President Arjun Munda expressed his excitement, stating that the presence of India’s top archers will draw attention to the sport and ensure thrilling contests. AAI Secretary General Virendra Sachdeva highlighted how the success of Indian archers on the global stage has paved the way for this league, making it a landmark event for fans worldwide.
What makes this league even more special is its format. Recurve archers will shoot from 70 meters, while compound archers will compete from 50 meters, all under floodlights. This setup aims to boost the confidence of Indian archers and enhance their performance, contributing to the nation’s Olympic aspirations.
With support from World Archery, World Archery Asia, and India’s Sports Ministry, the Archery Premier League is poised to become a cornerstone event in the sport.