New Delhi, May 13: Ace Indian pugilist Narsingh Yadav has said that he deserves to go to Rio Olympics ahead of two-time medallist Sushil Kumar since he is better than him in the 74kg category.
Speaking to The Times of India, Narsingh Said said that while he has plenty of respect for the legendary wrestler, Sushil wasn't the right candidate for the 74kg category.
“Sushil Kumar is a great wrestler. I have a lot of respect for him. But the bottom line is he is a 66kg category wrestler and not a 74kg fighter. If he wanted to fight in this category, he should have immediately done so after the London Olympics," he said.
Narsingh earned his ticket for the Rio Olympics by clinching a bronze medal at the World Wrestling Championships in Las Vegas last year in 74kg division freestyle wrestling.
According to the rules, the one winning the quota represents the country at Olympics.
Sushil did not participate in that event due to a shoulder injury.
While Sushil's name was not included in the list of probables sent to Indian Olympics Association (IOA) by Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), the two-time medalist has requested for fresh trials to decide the best candidate to represent India at the Olympics.
Reacting to Sushil's request, Yadav said, “I am not afraid of trials, but going to Rio is my right. I have achieved this right by performing consistently and winning India the quota at the World Championships. So, I should be given my due.“
Meanwhile on Thursday, Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal refused to be drawn into the raging controversy on the Olympic participation of wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Narsingh Yadav, saying he won't "interfere" in the matter and it has to be resolved by the Federation.
WFI has so far not clarified on the issue, leaving room for speculation and controversy.
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