JOIN USOlympic medallist grapplers Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt will not be a part of the next month’s Freestyle Wrestling World Cup as the two have been given further rest by the federation from national duties.
Sushil and Yogeshwar haven’t taken the mat since their medal winning feat at London Olympics in 2012 and now the two celebrated wrestlers are eyeing a return at the Commonwealth Games in July this year.
“The federation (WFI) has shortlisted important tournaments for senior wrestlers. The federation wants to give other wrestlers a chance. We have been asked to focus on our training keeping the Commonwealth Games in mind,” Sushil told PTI. World Championship silver medallist Amit Kumar Dahiya will lead the Indian contingent to its maiden World Cup in Los Angeles, USA from March 15-16.
WFI general secretary Raj Singh said both Sushil and Yogeshwar have been asked to concentrate on their training.
“We have asked Sushil and Yogeshwar to prepare for the Commonwealth Games. We have a strong team and hopefully they will do us proud in our first appearance,” said Singh. Other wrestlers shortlisted after the trials at SAI Centre, Sonepat on Tuesday include Bajrang, the world championship bronze medallist, in the 61kg category.
Squad: Amit Kumar (57kg), Bajrang (61kg), Rajneesh (65kg), Amit Kumar Dhankar (70kg), Parveen Rana (74kg), Parveen Kumar (86kg), Satyawart (97kg) and Krishan Kumar (125kg).