Torrid build-up but Indian cyclists upbeat about CWG chances

Their return to the Common wealth Games after a 32-year gap has been marred by a delay in procuring new equipment and dengue but Indian cyclists remain upbeat about their chances despite their medal hopes being slim at best against powerhouses such as Australia.

Janki Das was the first Indian cyclist, who took part in the 1938 Sydney Games, and the last time an Indian rider featured in the event was Avtar Singh Dogra in the 1978 Edmonton edition.

A 27-member is gearing up for the challenge that awaits them in the October 3 to 14 event against a strong field here but Cycling Federation of India are bullish about the host riders' chances despite the torrid build-up which saw two of the team members being laid low by dengue.