Indian boxers get new kits, no threat of Olympics disqualification

India’s chief boxing coach, Gurbax Singh Sandhu said jerseys without the nation’s name are being replaced at the Rio Games and no disqualification was feared.

India’s lightwelter boxer, Manoj Kumar (in red) taking on Lithuania’s Evaldas Petrauskas in the first round of the Rio Olympics boxing competition. The world governing body has pulled up India for not wearing jerseys with the country’s name.(REUTERS)

Threatened with disqualification for not wearing vests bearing the country’s name, Indian boxers at the Rio Olympics have got their kits replaced as required by the International Boxing Association (AIBA) and can now compete without any problem.

AIBA officials had pointed out the ‘technical flaw’ after light welterweight (64kg) boxer Manoj Kumar’s victory in his opening contest against Lithuania’s Evaldas Petrauskas on Wednesday night.

“It was pointed out to us and it has been sorted. It is a very normal issue, lot of countries face this problem of their kits not being up to it. In such instances, the organisers themselves provide the replacements,” national coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu said.

“Our case has also been sorted and there is no risk of disqualification. Our boys will compete as scheduled and there is no need to worry,” he added.

Indian boxers have been allowed to compete under the tri-colour at the Games despite the national federation remaining suspended.

India have three entries. Vikas Krishan (75kg) and Manoj Kumar have won their opening bouts to enter the pre-quarters. Bantamweight Shiva Thapa (56kg) is the other boxer in the fray.