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After Finch Phogat (53kg) and Bajrang Punya (65kg) were awarded direct entry to the Asian Games by the ad hoc committee of the Indian Olympic Association on Tuesday, the IOA said on Wednesday that the final selection of wrestlers will be made before departure for the Asian Games.
While Vinesh and Bajrang have been given direct entries, the other wrestlers will have to book their places in the Indian team through selection trials on July 22 and 23.
In a statement released, the Indian Olympic Association (I0A) said, “The selection criterion in individual events is aimed at identifying athletes who have consistently demonstrated their abilities and have the ability to compete at the highest level. In team events, the focus will be on selecting sports that have achieved the highest ranking of 8 in Asia.” In the last year leading up to the Asian Games.”
“This approach will ensure that team sports with a proven track record of excellence and competitiveness in the region get the opportunity to represent India,” she added.
According to the IOA, the process for selecting wrestlers to participate in the Asian Games is designed to be fair, transparent and in accordance with guidelines set by the International Federation.
The selection committee, comprising experienced officials and experts, recently published the criteria for selecting wrestlers, so that the team entry process including reserves can be completed before July 23, 2023. To maximize the chances of sending the most competitive wrestling team to the 2022 Asian Games, the final selection of wrestlers will take place before Departure of the team to compete. This approach will enable us to assess the athletes’ current form, look at their recent performance, and take into account any last-minute developments that may have affected the selection process.”
Earlier, Asian under-23 champion Sujit Kalkal on Wednesday criticized the IOA panel dedicated to granting direct entry to Bajrang Punia for the Asian Games, saying it was unfair on the next generation of wrestlers looking to become Olympic champions.
Anthem Bangal, the U-20 world champion, also questioned the Asian Games trial exemption given to Finch Fogat.
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