India lose uncommon wealth

Birmingham, July 26

In a huge setback for India, star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra today pulled out of the upcoming Commonwealth Games due to a groin strain he developed during his historic silver-winning campaign at the recently-concluded World Championships.

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 concern Rajiv Mehta, IOA Secretary General

The 24-year-old was to defend his men’s javelin throw title in Birmingham, where the Games are set to begin on Thursday. The development means that fans will miss out on Chopra’s much-anticipated clash with Grenada’s world champion Anderson Peters.

Indian Olympic Association secretary general Rajiv Mehta said Chopra underwent an MRI scan on Monday in the USA and has been advised a month’s rest.

“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 concern,” Mehta said.

“Following his participation in the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Mr Chopra 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.

According to sources close to the athlete, it’s a minor groin strain but as a precautionary measure he has been advised to take a break.

Athletics Federation of India president Adille Sumariwalla said he is in touch with Chopra to assist his recovery.

“Neeraj has said that since he is not 100% fit to compete at the CWG, he would not be the flagbearer of the Indian contingent at the athletes’ parade in the opening ceremony,” Sumariwalla said. “He appeared to be struggling on Sunday during the final at the World Championships. We are in constant touch with him to assist his recovery.”