Joydeep Karmakar is undoubtedly thrilled with India shooting team’s performance at the ongoing Asian Games in Hangzhou, but the former Olympian and national-level coach sounded cautious about the country’s medal prospects at the Paris Olympics in 2024.
The disappointment of the Tokyo Olympics, where India shooters returned empty-handed despite expectations, still rankles. But the present lot, with a few new faces, seems to be more focused on the positives gathered in Hangzhou, Karmakar said during a virtual interaction on Tuesday.
India shooters won 22 medals (7 gold, 9 silver and 6 bronze), their best-ever tally at an Asian Games.
“I am extremely happy with the performance, but I can’t say this was unexpected. India now have a number of very talented shooters. Also, this time team events were added and we did very well in them too adding to our tally,” Karmakar said.
However, asked if this result ensured a better showing at the Paris Olympics than in Tokyo, Karmakar explained it would be tough.
“This is the Asian Games. Olympics is Olympics. But we can at least say that if our shooters can maintain the scores they have got at the Asian Games, they should be able to make the finals. But first, they all have to qualify for the Olympics. It’s a long road,” he said.
The Asian Games are live on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV.
