The 21-year-old, who has several national records to his credit, clocked 2:01.40 to finish fifth, better than the Olympic qualifying benchmark of 2:1.79 but will have to wait until July 15 to know whether he would really be on the flight to Beijing.

Poncha would make the cut only if none of his other compatriots better his timing in the event at the second FINA World Youth Championships to be held in Monterrey, Mexico from July 8.

If he qualifies, then Poncha would be the fourth Indian swimmer to book a Beijing berth. The other three being teen sensation Virdawal Khade (200 meters free style), Ankur Poseria (100m butterfly) and Sandeep Sejwal (100m and 200m Breaststrokes).