India opened their medal account at the Archery World Cup Stage 4 with a silver after the women’s compound team lost 228-232 to Colombia in the final on Saturday.The Indian trio of Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep and Chikitha Taniparthi struggled to maintain consistency, while Colombia delivered a composed performance to claim the title.India, ranked world No. 3 in the event and winners of the season-opening World Cup Stage 1 in Mexico, could not match Colombia’s accuracy in the title clash. Teenager Prithika Pradeep was India’s best performer, shooting six perfect 10s, including two flawless ends. However, experienced archer Jyothi Surekha Vennam had an off day, managing just three 10s from her eight arrows, which hurt India’s chances.Colombia’s Alejandra Usquiano proved to be the difference, hitting eight consecutive 10s to guide her team to victory. Former world champion Sara Lopez was not at her best, but Usquiano’s consistency kept Colombia in control throughout the contest.India still have opportunities to add to their medal tally later in the tournament. Prithika has reached the women’s compound individual semifinal and is one win away from securing another medal.The recurve team also remains in contention. Teenager Kirti Sharma, who made her World Cup debut last month in Antalya, has advanced to the women’s individual semifinal and will also team up with India No. 1 Dhiraj Bommadevara in the recurve mixed team bronze-medal playoff, giving her a chance to finish the tournament with two medals.
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