Asian Games 2018: Mary Kom Pulls Out of The Mega Event

M.C Mary Kom has decided to pull out of the Asian Games 2018 which is scheduled to happen from August 18 to September 12, 2018, at Jakarta. The Five-time World Champion has decided to pull out since her preferred weight category is not a part of the competition. The Asian Games only has three categories i.e. 51kg, 57kg and 60kg whereas Mary Kom represents India in 48 kgs. Instead of Mary Kom, Manipur star Sarjubala Devi will represent India in the women's 51-kilogram category.

“Sarjubala Devi defeated Pinki Rani in the selection trial to take the final spot in the squad. Both the boxers had earned equal points and share of wins in the last two months and the trial was organised to finalize the last name in the squad," the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) said in a statement on Friday. "Sarjubala Devi dominated in the trial match and won with rather ease to log in her name on the Asian Games roster," read the statement further.

While speaking to IANS Mary Kom said that she is currently focusing on getting a gold medal in her category at the World Championships which is slated to happen in November, “I opted out myself because there is no 48-kilogram category at the Asian Games. Right now I am focused on winning gold at the World Championships in that weight category. Also, I have won medals at the Asian Games which include a gold and bronze in the 51kg event. Now I want to give a chance to the upcoming youngsters.”

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 30, 2018 08:57 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).