By Jagdish Yadav

Bellary (Karnataka) [India], April 2 (ANI): Fully recovered from a challenging injury setback, Indian Kabaddi star Ashu Malik is setting his sights firmly on upcoming international assignments, including the Asian Games, as he looks to don the national colours.

Speaking on Day 4 of the ongoing national camp organised by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) in Bellary, the Dabang Delhi captain reflected on his journey, recovery, and aspirations for the future.

The five-day camp, which will be concluded on Thursday, has brought together a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters as India begins preparations for major international competitions.

The 24-year-old Malik, who led Dabang Delhi to the Pro Kabaddi League 2025 title, described representing India as the ultimate dream for any athlete. 'Wearing 'India' on your back is every player's dream. We are working hard to win medals at the highest level, be it the Asian Games, World Cup, or other international tournaments,' the star raider told ANI on Wednesday.

Hailing from Sonepat in Haryana, he also highlighted the role of AKFI in nurturing young talent, praising the inclusion of teenage players in the camp.

'Young players aged 18-19 are being brought into the system. It helps them understand the environment of the national camp and prepares them for the future,' he noted.

Malik emphasised the mutual learning environment within the squad, drawing parallels from his own early days. 'When we were young, we watched players like Sandeep Narwal and Pardeep Narwal on TV and dreamed of playing with them. Today, the new generation looks at us the same way,' he added.

Opening up about a recent injury, Malik recalled the difficult phase during the PKL season when he suffered a tendon and ankle issue during a match against Haryana Steelers. Despite the pain, he continued playing with support taping before taking a three-month break post-season. 'It was tough, but injuries are part of a player's life. By the end of January, I was fully fit again,' he said.

Reflecting on Dabang Delhi's successful campaign, Malik credited the team's collective effort rather than individual brilliance. He singled out experienced names like Surjeet Singh and Fazel Atrachali, along with youngsters such as Saurabh Nandal, Ajinkya Pawar and Neeraj Narwal, for their contributions.

Looking ahead, Malik remains focused and ambitious. With the Asian Games on the horizon, his goal is clear: 'We have to win gold for India. That's the target.'

For Malik, the journey from watching kabaddi heroes on television to becoming one himself has come full circle -- now driven by a renewed sense of purpose and the dream of standing atop the podium for his country. (ANI)