Sakshi, Vinesh crash out of World Wrestling Championship

Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik crashed out in the first round while compatriot Vinesh Phogat’s campaign also ended in a whimper as Indian grapplers continued with dismal show at World Wrestling Championship in Paris.

After three listless days, the onus was on Sakshi and Vinesh to end India’s medal drought but both failed to live up to the expectations. Sakshi and Vinesh went down in their respective Round of 16 bouts.

Sakshi was stunned by Luisa Niemesch of Germany 1—3 in women’s 60kg, while two-time junior world champion Victoria Anthony of USA got a fall over Vinesh Phogat in 48kg. Other Indians in the fray today — Sheetal Tomar (53kg) and Navjot Kaur (69kg) — also bowed out of the tournament with contrasting performances.