Pakistan international kabaddi player Ubaidullah Rajput is facing possible suspension and a fine after allegedly representing “India” and waving its flag during a tournament in Bahrain, officials confirmed to Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) on Thursday.
The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) has termed the act “condemnable” and convened an emergency general council meeting to determine disciplinary action against the 29-year-old player.
Federation: Participation Was Illegal
PKF Secretary Rana Sarwar said Rajput’s participation, along with several others, was unauthorized and violated federation rules.
The Kabaddi Federation of Pakistan has taken notice of Rajput’s infringement, which is severe. An emergency general council meeting has been convened to decide what action should be taken against him.
According to Sarwar, 16 Pakistani players featured in the Bahrain event without obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the federation.
The participation of these 16 players was illegal because there was no NOC from the federation, nor did we approve this event.
Indian Flag Images Deepen Controversy
The situation intensified after images surfaced showing Rajput waving the Indian flag during the tournament.
There are images of Rajput waving an Indian flag, which is a very severe issue given the current situation. International players do participate in club events, but these clubs do not represent countries.
Sarwar further warned that the federation would also move against tournament organizers.
We will take action against the promoters staging illegal events. No one is allowed to use the name of a country without prior permission. Such club events are always prone to infringements.
Rajput Issues Unconditional Apology
Rajput has since submitted a written apology to the PKF, insisting he was unaware that the club he represented was affiliated with India.
I say on oath that I did not know the club I played for was from India. I usually take part in this event. The club that invited me last year did not contact me this time, so I changed clubs.
He claimed he only learned of the national labels after arriving at the venue.
“When I entered the field and they raised slogans for India and Pakistan, I requested the commentators to announce that these were not national teams, but they did not do so,” he said.
‘Always Represented Pakistan With Pride’
Reaffirming his loyalty, Rajput said he had tendered an unconditional apology to the federation.
I have always represented Pakistan with pride and am ready to give my life for my country.
The PKF is expected to announce its decision following the emergency meeting in the coming days.
Mount Maunganui Masterclass as Conway and Latham Break Windies’ Resistance
ILT20: MI Emirates Hold On To Stun Dubai Capitals By Seven Runs
PREVIEW | History Beckons Jordan as Morocco Stand Firm in Arab Cup Decider
