Olympic champion and star Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has pulled out of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games due to ‘fitness concerns.’
The development which was announced by the Indian Olympic Association comes as a huge jolt for India as he was expected to lead country’s charge at the showpiece event.
“Team India javelin thrower Mr. Neeraj Chopra had called me earlier today from the US to convey his inability to take part in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games owing to fitness concerns,” IOA General Secretary Rajeev Mehta said in a statement.
“Following his participation in the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Mr. Chopra had had an MRI scan done on Monday and, based on it, he has been advised a month’s rest by his medical team,” he added.
Neeraj’s was expected to be the flagbearer for the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony but now the IOA will now have to find a replacement.
“It is the prerogative of the IOA to name Neeraj’s replacement as the flagbearer. I have not heard from the federation yet and once they decide, will let everyone know of it,” India team’s Chef de Mission Rajesh Bhandari told Daily Guardian from Birmingham.
Sharing his views regarding the unfortunate incident, Bhim Singh Chopra, mentor and uncle of Neeraj said, “It is very sad to see him pull out of the Commonwealth. He was a strong favourite and there was lot of expectations on him. Neeraj felt discomfort during the World Championships final as well.”
“He wanted to play and I know the entire country wanted him to participate as well but unfortunately his body did not permit him to do so,” Bhim told The Daily Guardian in an exclusive chat.
“While Neeraj presence would have been a huge boost to the Indian contingent, I feel that we still have a very strong squad and am very confident that all the athletes will give their best and we will win a lot of medals,” he concluded.
