Visa issues shatter para shooter Avani Lekhara's France dream

New Delhi:Paralympics champion rifle shooter Avani Lekhara's hope of competing at the Chateauroux 2022 WSPS World Cup in France has been shattered after visas for the Indian para shooting contingent was not approved.On Saturday, Lekhara called for help from the sports authorities to ensure visas for her escort and coach as she has to compete at the World Cup, starting from June 4 in France.

"I am sad, not able to go to France since the visa of my escort Shweta Jewaria and my coach Rakesh Manpat have not been released. It's an important match for me on 7th June. Can anyone help?" she tweeted.

Replying to Lekhara, Sports Authority of India tweeted: "It is unfortunate that all the visas of the Indian para shooting contingent going to France have not been approved. All efforts were made by MYAS and MEA to secure all visas but unfortunately this time the efforts did not materialise."

The 20-year-old rifle shooter, who created history becoming the first Indian woman to win two Paralympic medals, was conferred the prestigious Khel Ratna award in 2021.

Lekhara had become the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold by claiming the top honours in the 10m air rifle standing SH1 event and a bronze in the 50m Rifle 3 Position SH1 event in Tokyo 2021.(UNI)