Subhechcha Ganguly 
India’s premier steeplechaser Avinash Sable is gearing up for a competitive return at the upcoming Federation Cup, months after undergoing ACL and meniscus surgery on his right knee. The injury, sustained during the Monaco Diamond League last July, forced the 31-year-old into one of the most challenging rehabilitation phases of his career.
Sable admitted that the long recovery period tested both his physical strength and mental resilience, with moments of self-doubt about whether he could return to peak form in time for a crucial season featuring the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.
Now training at the Inspire Institute of Sport, he is working to correct muscle imbalances and regain the strength and confidence needed for steeplechase, particularly in clearing hurdles—an area he says still requires improvement. While he remains optimistic about running form, Sable acknowledged that regaining full confidence in jumping will take more time.
With the Federation Cup (May 22–25) serving as the final qualifying event for the Commonwealth Games, the pressure is mounting. Though the qualification mark of 8:30.26 is well within reach for the national record holder, who boasts a personal best of 8:09.91, Sable conceded that returning from a long injury layoff brings uncertainty. He described the next few weeks as crucial, as he aims to rebuild confidence and secure his place on the international stage once again.
