‘What happened was not because of me’: Roshibina Devi answers selection controversy with Asian Games silver

Roshibina Devi secured a podium finish in Wushu 60kg at the Asian Games. | Photo Credit: PTI

Elated after winning a second consecutive Asian Games silver, Indian wushu player Roshibina Devi refused to dwell on the accusations of unfair selection levelled by injured and omitted player Divyanshi Chaudhary.

The 25-year-old Roshibina now has three Asian Games medals, having won bronze in 2018 and silver in 2022. This time, she lost 0-2 to China’s Zhang Xiaoyu in the women’s 60kg final on Thursday.

“What happened was not because of me. It was the federation’s decision. Whatever decision the federation (Wushu Association of India) took, I think it was a good decision,” Roshibina said after the final.

“I will ignore it (the accusation). I just want to focus on my goal,” said the Manipuri.

Divyanshi, who had beaten Roshibina in the Asian Games trials in Srinagar in June, was dropped from the squad after suffering an ACL injury. She accused the federation of playing favourites and alleged that she was being harassed “because Roshibina wanted to go”.

The Wushu Association of India produced Divyanshi’s MRI report, which revealed a partial high-grade ACL tear, and justified replacing her with Roshibina.

Roshibina said she learnt about her inclusion only a few days before the squad’s departure.

“There was a lot of disturbance when I came here for the Asian Games. I did not get much time to prepare. If I had more time, I would have done better,” she said.

Asked what had disturbed her, she replied: “I was not in the team initially (after losing in the trial). That was it.”

Roshibina said Indian wushu players needed to develop greater mental fortitude to challenge China’s dominance.

“We have to improve our mentality. We have a two-time world (junior) champion Aryan. He has already defeated the Chinese. The juniors think there is pressure. We (seniors) will show them that we can beat the Chinese.

“The juniors will feel that we can do it. There are a lot of good players in wushu. I am sure that they will do better.”

Roshibina’s right knee was taped during the bout, while she also took a blow to her nose.

“It is a minor thing (taped) from the semifinal bout. I don’t know when I was hit. I do not know what pain is. I forget all the pain during fights,” she said.

“I want to inspire all the players. I want to be like them. I will do my best in the upcoming Games.”

Published on Sep 24, 2026

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