Narsingh Yadav fails dope test, may miss Summer Olympics 2016

In a huge jolt to the Indian wrestling contingent in Rio Olympics, Narsingh Yadav has failed a dope test. His accreditation has also been withheld. Yadav was scheduled to represent the tri-colour in 74 kg category. National Anti-Doping Director General Navin Agarwal confirmed that Narsingh’s ‘B’ sample also tested positive for a banned steroid and he appeared before a NADA disciplinary panel yesterday.

“Yes, he (Narsingh) tested positive for a banned steroid.  His B sample was also found to be positive. Narsingh was personally present when his B sample was opened,” NADA DG told.

“He appeared before a disciplinary panel yesterday. The panel sought for more reports regarding the matter. We will proceed further and I am hoping that the panel will proceed quickly. Till then we will have to wait,” he added.

Asked if Narsingh will miss the Rio Olympics, Agarwal said, “It is too early to comment in that regard. We will try to complete the whole thing quickly. I cannot speculate on that.”

Interestingly, Narsingh was selected for the Rio Olympics in controversial circumstances as double Olympic medallist Sushil Singh had also staked his claim to represent the country in 74kg freestyle.

Narsingh Yadav won a bronze medal at the 2015 World Championships to win the Olympics quota place in the 74 kg category.

But Narsingh was favoured as he had earned the Olympic quota in the World Championships last year.

Narsingh had to fight a lengthy legal battle with two-time Olympics medallist Sushil, also in the same category, to get the chance to compete for India at the Olympics.