WFI to allow railways wrestlers to represent states in Nationals

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has taken a significant step in ensuring that Railways wrestlers can compete in the upcoming National Championship, which is set to begin on December 6, 2024, in Bengaluru.

This comes after the Railways Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) decided not to send entries for the tournament, a move that has raised concerns among athletes who rely on the competition to advance in their careers.

As part of a decision to support the wrestlers, the WFI has allowed them to participate by representing their respective states, despite RSPB not entering teams for the Nationals.

The national body recognized the importance of this opportunity for the athletes, particularly since performance in these championships often leads to selection for international competitions.

“There is no fault of these wrestlers, why should they suffer and lose a crucial year?” a WFI official told PTI. 

Although 81 wrestlers, including freestyle and Greco-Roman athletes, are affiliated with the Railways, no trials were held to select the team for the Nationals, leaving many wrestlers uncertain about their participation.

Several of these athletes reached out to WFI, pledging to compete under their state teams, even without an official NOC from Railways.

Despite this, the WFI expressed frustration with the decision by RSPB, especially since all other affiliated state units, including the Services Sports Control Board, have sent entries.

"We waited till November 30 for the Railways entries but did not receive them," the WFI official stated, adding that the situation would be discussed at the next AGM.