Vinesh Phogat wins 50kg bout after holding up proceedings in the morning

Asian Games and Commonwealth Games gold-medallist Vinesh Phogat took a step towards qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics by triumphing in the 50 kg category in the wrestling selection trials in Patiala.

Vinesh scripted an incredible comeback to beat Shivanee in the final of the wrestling selection trials. Vinesh, who was losing 1-4, came back to win the contest 11-6 against Shivanee. She will now go to the Asian Olympics Qualifier in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

She, however, lost the 53kg bout to Anju by technical superiority 0-10.

Vinesh, who had accused former WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment and led a prolonged protest against the BJP MP, turned up at the SAI centre in the morning to compete in the 50kg trials.

However, Vinesh did not let the competition start and demanded a written assurance. She also sought permission to compete in both 50kg and 53kg trials on Monday, leading to a bizarre situation.

The officials went into discussions.

The wrestlers, competing in the 50kg weight class, also complained to the officials regarding the delay.

"We are waiting since the past two and half hours," they said.

This despite the IOA ad-hoc panel already announcing that a final trial will be held to pick India's representative in 53kg. The best four wrestlers in 53kg will compete in trials near the Games and the winner will be asked to compete with Antim.

The winner of that bout will represent India.

"Vinesh wants an assurance from the government. Probably she fears that if WFI gets back the control, the federation may change the selection policy. But how can the government give assurance on this? The government can't interfere in selection matters," a coach, present at the trials, told PTI.

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