BFI picks 15 probables for Asian meet

The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) selection committee here on Sunday selected a 15-member probables squad for the Indian senior women's basketball team.

Out of these 15, the final 12-member squad will be selected to take part in the 26th Asia Women's Championship to be held in Wuhan, China, from August 29 to September 5.

"It is the best 15 in my opinion. We have a good balance for every position," Garcia said after the final selection done in consultation with the coaching staff.

"I didn't have any trouble about coaching. I am focused on working with the team. In Bangalore there have been fewer administrative deficiencies."

Veteran international Anitha Paul Durai said: "I think we are developing a good understanding now. Our aim is to maintain our fifth position in Asia."

A recent mother, Durai should be credited for getting back to full fitness, a feat not many athletes are able to achieve post-maternity.

Local player 17-year-old Bhandavya, who also made it to the final 15, expressed her joy and excitement at the selection.

"I have played in the youth (U16) and junior (U18) Indian teams, so it has been my long cherished dream to make it to the senior team as well. I didn't think this dream would come true so early," said Bhandavya.

The probables: Rajapriyadarshini R (Railways), Stephy Nixon (Kerala), Poojamol KS (Kerala), Apoorva Muralinath (Railways), Srividhya V (Tamil Nadu), Smruthi Radhakrishnan (Railways), Jeena PS (Kerala), Sitamani Tudu (Railways), AAnjana PG (Kerala), Sruthi Menon (Maharashtra), Anitha P (Railways), Shireen Limaye (Maharashtra), Barkha Sonkar (Uttar Pradesh), Kavita Akula (Chhatisgarh), Bhandavya HM (Karnataka). Officials: Francisco Garcia (Head coach), Aparna Ghosh (Railways, Assistant coach).