After a poor performance at the wrestling trials for the Paris Olympics qualifier tournament, India two Tokyo medalist, Bajrang Punia & Ravi Dahiya were ousted by little-known competitors. While Bajrang lost to Rohit in the 65 kg category, Ravi was ousted before the last four round.
But as per a report in the Indian Express, there still seems to be some hope for the duo. There are some who believe that the Olympic medal winners from Tokyo should be invited for May 31 trials, to get the right candidate for the Paris Olympics. So if that criteria is followed, then Bajrang and Ravi could well have a shot at the qualifications again.
Complex Selection Rules by Ad-hoc Committee
The winner of the trials will now take part in the Olympic trials. The winner of the quota at these trials will have to beat the challenger on June 5, to be able to participate at the Olympics. To become a challenger, a trial will be held on May 31. The wrestlers finishing in top four at Monday’s trials will be given a shot as well.
Let’s take the example of Bajrang’s 65 kg category. Provided Sujeet Kalkal goes on to win the Olympic quota, he will fight the other semi-finalists in the category to go to Paris. Even Bajrang could be given a chance here, given he’s a bronze medalist from 2020.
What are Vinesh’s Chances to go to Paris
Vinesh won the 50 kg trial, lost in semis in the 53 kg category. She will now participate at the May 31 trials, and could fight Antim for a quota. Otherwise, if she wins the quota herself, she would be up against challengers.
