New Delhi, June 10 :  Promising youngster Ayush Shetty and Tara Shah will lead the 18-member Indian challenge at the Badminton Asia Junior Championships to be played in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from July 7-16, 

Ayush Shetty with the current world ranking of 20 in men's singles in the BWF rankings and an impressive second position in the BAI rankings,  brings a wealth of experience into the team. His consistent performances make him a valuable asset for the side.

Tara Shah has demonstrated exceptional prowess in the girls' singles section, capturing attention with her skillful play and determination. Currently ranked 7th in the girls' singles category in the BWF rankings, Tara Shah is a force to be reckoned with. Her outstanding performance and world ranking further solidified her position as a key player in the team.

Lakshya Sharma and Rakshitha Sree S also proved their mettle during the trials, securing the first position in the boys' singles and girls' singles category respectively. They will be looking to be among medals at the prestigious tournament.

Nicholas Nathan Raj and Tushar Suveer showcased impressive teamwork and coordination to secure the top spot in the boys' doubles category. Whereas, in the girls' doubles section, Radhika Sharma and Tanvi Sharma displayed their synchronized movements, effective communication, and strategic game plans which assured them of the first position.

Samarveer and Radhika Sharma stood first in the mixed doubles category and booked their ticket for the Championships. Their excellent understanding of each other's game, quick reflexes, and precise shot placements makes them a formidable pair.

The team comprises athletes who have showcased their remarkable performances during the Final Selection Trials (Junior) which was held at Karnal Singh Railway Stadium in New Delhi from June 4-7, 2023. These players will represent India in various categories, including boys' singles, girls' singles, boys' doubles, girls' doubles, and mixed doubles.

Sanjay Mishra, Secretary, BAI, said, “The players fought hard during the trials to earn their place in the team. The Asia Junior Badminton Championships provide a platform to young players to display their talent, compete at an international level, and gain invaluable experience"

The selected players will have a two-week national camp from 22nd June to 4th July . The camp will help the players to prepare well for the championships as well as it will strengthen the team bonding which is very crucial for the success in team events like this., he said
   
The squad
Boys' Singles:
  Ayush Shetty, Lakshya Sharma, Samarveer,  Dhruv Negi

Girls' Singles:
Tara Shah,- Rakshitha Sree S,- Shriyanshi Valishetty, Anmol Kharb

Boys' Doubles:
 Nicholas Nathan Raj / Tushar Suveer,- Divyam Arora / Mayank Rana

Girls' Doubles:
 Radhika Sharma / Tanvi Sharma,- Karnika Sree S / Taneesha Singh

Mixed Doubles:
 Samarveer / Radhika Sharma, Arulmurugan R / Srinidhi N