Murali Sreeshankar Dominates Season Opener, Wins Indian Athletics Series Title
Synopsis
Murali Sreeshankar has made a stunning start to his season by clinching the title in the men’s long jump at the Indian Athletics Series 2026 in Bengaluru. His remarkable performance featured multiple successful jumps, showcasing his readiness for upcoming challenges.
Key Takeaways
Murali Sreeshankar won the men's long jump with a leap of 8.15m .
He met the Asian Games qualifying standard of 7.91m.
Sreeshankar achieved this during the Indian Athletics Series 2026 in Bengaluru.
Consistency was key, with successful jumps in all six attempts.
The series continues with upcoming meets in Udaipur , Sangrur , and Ranchi .
Bengaluru, April 4 (NationPress) Murali Sreeshankar commenced his season on a high note by triumphing in the men’s long jump at the inaugural Indian Athletics Series 2026 held in Bengaluru this past Saturday.
Taking to the track at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the 27-year-old athlete achieved his best jump during his fourth attempt, becoming the sole competitor to surpass the 8.00m threshold and meet the Asian Games qualifying standard of 7.91m.
Sreeshankar showcased remarkable consistency, successfully clearing the qualifying benchmark in all six of his jumps. His series of leaps included distances of 8.03m, 7.99m, 8.13m, 8.15m, 8.12m, and 8.10m.
This performance marked a strong comeback for the Indian long jumper, who had last competed at the World Athletics Championships 2025 in September of the previous year.
His winning jump of 8.15m eclipsed his best effort from the 2025 season, which was 8.13m. Sreeshankar’s personal record stands at 8.41m, while the national record is held by Jeswin Aldrin at 8.42m.
Although he surpassed the Athletics Federation of India’s qualification standard, this jump does not automatically guarantee his selection for the Asian Games. According to the selection criteria set by the Athletics Federation of India, athletes are required to participate in at least three domestic competitions, including mandatory participation in state championships.
In the men’s triple jump, former Asian champion Abdulla Aboobacker secured victory with a leap of 16.82m, while national record holder Praveen Chithravel did not take part in this event.
Additionally, Sarvesh Kushare, who represented India at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, clinched the men’s high jump title with a clearance of 2.23m.
The Bengaluru event served as the opener for the 16-event Indian Athletics Series initiated by the Athletics Federation of India this year, featuring finals across various track and field disciplines.
Among other outstanding performances, Baranica Elangovan shone in the women’s pole vault, while Ancy Sojan narrowly edged out Shaili Singh by just two centimeters to claim the women’s long jump title.
In the men’s javelin throw, Bibin Antony emerged victorious with a top throw of 77.53m.
The series is set to continue with its next meet in Udaipur on Sunday, before proceeding to Sangrur and Ranchi for subsequent rounds next weekend.
Point of View
The recent performance of Murali Sreeshankar at the Indian Athletics Series 2026 exemplifies the depth of talent in Indian athletics. His achievement not only reflects personal excellence but also raises the profile of athletics in the country as we look towards international competitions like the Asian Games.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Murali Sreeshankar's best jump?
Murali Sreeshankar's best jump at the Indian Athletics Series was 8.15m.
Where was the Indian Athletics Series held?
The Indian Athletics Series was held at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.
Is Murali Sreeshankar selected for the Asian Games?
Despite meeting the qualification standard, Murali Sreeshankar's selection for the Asian Games is not guaranteed.
Who won the men's triple jump?
Abdulla Aboobacker won the men's triple jump with a leap of 16.82m.
What is the next event in the Indian Athletics Series?
The next event in the Indian Athletics Series will be held in Udaipur on Sunday.
