Expecting great result from Indian shooters: Deepak Kumar

Asian Games silver medallist shooter Deepak Kumar is expecting a great result from the Indian shooting contingent at the Tokyo Olympics.

Kumar, who secured an Olympic quota for India in the 10m air rifle event at the Asian Championships last year, said: "I have secured an Olympic quota for India in the 10m air rifle event. I booked the berth for my country after I clinched bronze at the Asian Championships last year. However, my place in the Indian shooting contingent isn't confirmed yet."

"The Olympic team will be decided in a few months. I feel that I have a 99.99 percent chance of making it to the team since I have produced good results. India has finished number one in all of the shooting World Cups in 2019. So, I am expecting a great result from the Indian shooting contingent at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics," he added.

Kumar lauded the government's efforts to improve the sporting culture in the country.

"The Indian government thought about the fact that why couldn't the Indian contingent perform to its potential at the Rio Olympics. So now the government is trying to inculcate a competitive mindset in our athletes. With continued efforts from the government, the Indian athletes will produce better results in the future Olympic Games," said the 32-year-old.

Kumar believes that the university-level students have a good chance of showcasing their talent at the Khelo India University Games, the first edition of which will be held from February 22 to March 1.

"The Indian government is making a lot of effort to improve sports in India and all of their initiatives like the Khelo India Youth Games have produced great results. The government has provided a platform for athletes at all levels to showcase their talent. So through the Khelo India University Games, the university students in India now have a chance to show their skills as well," said the shooter.