KIYG: Hours after grandfather's death, gritty Ayush inspires Bihar to Sepak Takraw silver

It was a day of mixed emotions for Ayush Kumar, who showcased remarkable grit and determination as part of the Bihar team that underlined its rising stature in Sepak Takraw by clinching the men's team silver after going down 1-2 to powerhouse Manipur in a tantalising final of the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 on Tuesday.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Manipur girls ensured their dominance continued as they joined their teammates on top of the podium after beating Kerala 2-0 in the summit clash.

The final matches of the Sepak Takraw event, making its debut in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 Bihar, were played in front of a packed crowd, reflecting the State's growing passion for the sport, which is now among its 14 priority disciplines.

Ayush, a member of the third Regu in the team competition, competed despite suffering a personal loss earlier in the day with the passing of his 78-year-old grandfather. Standing firm in the face of adversity, he chose to continue until the very end of the competition.