WFI rejects Vinesh Phogat’s applications for three international meetings

NEW DELHI:: In yet another snub to Vinesh Phogat, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has rejected her request to enter her name for three upcoming international tournaments, including the Hungarian points series in Budapest.The federation cited her suspension and an unsatisfactory response to her show-cause notice as reasons for the rejection.Vinesh was aiming to compete in the Spanish Grand Prix and the Polyak Imre, Varga Janos and Kozma Istvan Memorial series in Budapest scheduled for next month, and the Poland Open in Warsaw in August as part of her comeback plans after failing to qualify for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.WFI sources said the federation is not sending teams to events in Spain and Poland, while entries for the Hungarian meet were already completed before Vinesh completed her ineligibility period on June 26 – the last date for sending entries for the Hungarian meet was June 15.The federation has also insisted that her suspension remains in place pending disciplinary proceedings and a court hearing.Sources further pointed out that Vinesh is not part of the national camp, has not competed in domestic events and is not a national ranking holder. Only the wrestlers at the Asiad Games and the No. 2 and 3 wrestlers in each men’s and women’s weight category were considered for the Hungarian event, where India had already filled its quota in the 53 kg division – the division in which Vinesh usually competes.