Baku: India's women wrestlers delivered strong podium finishes at the 2026 U17 World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing home a silver and two bronze medals in highly competitive weight categories.
Leading the charge in the 57kg division, Nikita Sehrawat put together a brilliant campaign to reach the championship final, according to a press release.
Facing a formidable opponent in reigning U17 World silver medalist Epenesa Elison of the USA, Nikita fought valiantly but ultimately sustained a 0-6 defeat.
Read more: WFI cracks down on age fraud, disqualifies 500-plus wrestlers at U-17 ranking meet
She finishes second on the podium, securing a well-deserved silver medal for India.
In the 49kg category, Kamna Babal showcased excellent resilience to claim the bronze medal. Following a semifinal setback against Japan's Saika Uchida, Kamna bounced back in the third-place play-off against Russia's Irina Tsydeeva.
In a tense and closely fought bout, the Indian grappler edged past her opponent with a 3-2 victory to secure her spot on the podium.
Read more: WFI announces Indian squad for U-17 World Championships in Baku
Adding to the nation's tally, Garima delivered a dominant performance in the 73kg bronze medal match. After a narrow 5-7 loss to USA's Kaili Manuel in the semifinals, the former U15 Asian Champion regrouped effectively.
She completely outclassed Spain's Paula Benaixa Perez, registering a flawless 10-0 victory by technical superiority (VSU) to win the bronze.
Consolidated Results
* 57kg: Nikita Sehrawat (India) vs. Epenesa Elison (USA); 0-6
* 49kg: Kamna Babal (India) vs. Irina Tsydeeva (Russia); 3-2
* 73kg: Garima (India) vs. Paula Benaixa Perez (Spain); 10-0, VSU.
