The Indian wrestling contingent for the upcoming Asian Games was completed on Sunday after selection trials in the men’s freestyle, but the controversy around the direct entry to Bajrang Punia remained the talking point at the Indira Gandhi stadium.
Vishal Kaliraman overcame Rohit 9-3 in the final of the 65kg to earn a stand-by spot in the category and was expectedly dejected even after a day of dominating performances.
“It’s been so hard today, fighting five bouts and only drinking water all day. I have been training at the Chhatrasal Stadium for 10–12 years and about five years before that in the village — for these opportunities. But if you include someone directly then what is the point of all our hard work and performances? This is like destroying the careers of youngsters and juniors. We have been working so hard for so many years,” he said.
