Decision to axe hockey from CWG is sad news, says India forward Mandeep Singh
The Indian men's hockey team forward Mandeep Singh called the decision to exclude hockey from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow ‘sad news’ for Indian hockey.
Ace wrestler Bajrang Punia has been nominated on Friday for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award- India’s highest sporting honour. The Asian and Commonwealth Games gold-medalist’s name was nominated by a 12-member selection committee.
Notably, the committee comprises of reputed names like Bhaichung Bhutia and MC Mary Kom.
“Bajrang has been nominated for the Khel Ratna award. His name was a unanimous choice,” a source close to the development told PTI.
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The source added that the panel may also add another sportsperson for the esteemed honour on Saturday. They will also have to finalise the names of athletes and coaches for the Arjuna and Dronacharya awards.
“I had the achievements to deserve this award. I have always said that awards should go to the most deserving ones,” Bajrang told news PTI from Georgia where he is currently training.
Notably, Bajrang had clinched the gold medal in the 65-kg freestyle event in the Asian Games competition which was held in Jakarta. He had also won the gold at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in the same category.
He will be a primary contender for a medal at India’s run in the Tokyo Olympics next year.
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