Assam Athlete Shines for India in Colombo
Assam’s CH. Jaiphatombi Devi has brought pride to the state after representing India at the 6th South Asian Sepaktakraw Championship 2026 held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on February 7 and 8. As part of the Indian Women’s Team, she contributed to India’s gold medal victories in the Team Event and Regu Event, along with a silver medal in the Quad Event.
Her achievement has been welcomed across Assam, including in Guwahati, where state sports bodies and enthusiasts have lauded the performance.
CH. Jaiphatombi Devi from Assam won two gold medals and one silver for India at the 6th South Asian Sepaktakraw Championship 2026 in Colombo. India secured gold in the Team and Regu events and silver in the Quad event, marking a strong regional performance.
Strong Performance Across Formats
At the championship, India delivered dominant performances in multiple categories.
- Team Event: Combined results based on overall match performance between nations. India secured gold.
- Regu Event: Traditional format with three players per side. India clinched gold.
- Quad Event: Four players per side, making the match faster and more tactical. India finished with silver.
The Indian women’s team showcased agility, coordination, and technical precision throughout the tournament.
What Makes Sepaktakraw Unique
Sepaktakraw blends elements of volleyball and football. Players use acrobatic kicks, head and foot control to pass and smash the ball over a net without using their hands.
The sport demands:
- Flexibility and core strength
- High reflex coordination
- Tactical positioning
- Team synchronisation
Jaiphatombi Devi’s performance reflects years of disciplined training and competitive exposure.
Guwahati’s Growing Sporting Identity
The achievement adds to Assam’s expanding sporting profile. Guwahati, as the administrative and sporting hub of the state, plays a key role in athlete development through state associations and training camps.
The Assam Sepaktakraw Association (ASTA) congratulated Jaiphatombi Devi and the Indian team, terming the achievement a proud moment for Assam and the nation.
For young athletes in Guwahati and across the state, international medals in emerging sports like sepaktakraw serve as motivation.
Regional Significance Ahead of Bigger Events
The strong showing at the South Asian level reinforces India’s competitive standing in sepaktakraw within the region.
With increasing focus on non-mainstream sports, such performances could contribute to greater recognition, funding, and structured development programmes in Assam.
What Happens Next?
Following the championship, the focus is expected to shift to future international competitions and national camps.
Further announcements regarding training schedules or upcoming tournaments are awaited from the relevant sports authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the South Asian Sepaktakraw Championship 2026 held?
The championship was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on February 7 and 8, 2026.
What medals did Jaiphatombi Devi win?
She won gold in the Team and Regu events and silver in the Quad event as part of the Indian Women’s Team.