Narsingh, not Sushil, to represent India at Rio Olympics
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In an attempt to end speculations, the Wrestling Federation of India today recommended Narsingh Yadav’s name for the Rio Olympics. Narsingh and Olympian Sushil Kumar had been fighting over the Olympic spot in the 74-kg men's freestyle wrestling event, which Narsingh had won last year.
“We have sent the name of Narsingh Pancham Yadav to the IOA. Now it's up to the IOA. We have made our recommendation in the 74-kg category, Vinod Tomar, assistant secretary of the WFI, told News18 Sports.
Narsingh Yadav became the first Indian wrestler to win an Olympic quota when he won a bronze medal at the World Wrestling Championship last year in the 74-kg category. However, with Sushil Kumar shifting from the 66-kg category to the 74-kg, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) was in a fix on whom to send to the Rio Olympics. The recommendation appears to be the first step in clearing the air around what was threatening to build into a bitter affair.
The announcement confirms that there will be no trial, where the two face off for the spot, as was requested by Sushil Kumar all through.
Sushil had lobbied very hard for a trial citing the example of World Champion Jordan Burroughs, who had undergone a trial to seal his place. "Last week, Jordan Burroughs, the reigning World, and Olympic Champion, had to undergo trials to win a place in the US team. How else can anyone ascertain whether someone is in form when major championships are near?” Sushil told Hindustan Times earlier.
Narsingh had been understandably opposed to the suggestion saying, "I think there is no need for trials. When we go for a competition abroad, we are selected for the team through a trial.”Â
