NEW DELHI: Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya, both Tokyo Games medalists, faced elimination from Paris Olympics qualification after losing in their respective bouts during the selection trials held in Sonepat, Haryana for upcoming international tournaments.
Punia, known for his vocal stance against former WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, suffered a significant 1-9 defeat in the men's freestyle 65kg semi-final against Rohit Kumar. Despite a narrow victory against Ravinder (3-3 on criteria), Punia's chances were jeopardised in the tough competition.
Following his elimination, Punia left the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre abruptly, declining a dope test by NADA officials. He had trained in Russia to prepare for the trials, which were organised by the IOA ad-hoc panel.
Despite winning a case in the Delhi High Court, arguing that the suspended Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) lacked authority to conduct trials, Punia faced disappointment in the selection process.
In the men's 57kg category, featuring Tokyo Games silver medalist Ravi Dahiya and rising star Aman Sehrawat, Dahiya lost a high-scoring opening bout 13-14 to Aman.
Despite a last-minute effort, Aman secured a close victory. Dahiya then lost the next bout to U20 Asian champion Udit, leading to his elimination from the trials.
The winners of these trials will earn the opportunity to compete at the Asian and World Olympic Qualifiers. As of now, India has secured only one quota for the Paris Games through Antim Panghal in women's 53kg category.
(With PTI inputs)
