India’s campaign for the 18th Asian Games, starting in Jakarta and Palembang on August 18, received a setback with reigning women’s 48kg World champion weightlifter S. Mirabai Chanu pulling out on Tuesday due to pain in her lower back.
Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) issued a statement confirming Mirabai’s exclusion.
“Mirabai Chanu has encountered a spinal spasm which resulted in severe back pain. Presently she is going through rehabilitation... Owing to the pain, Mirabai’s entry has been withdrawn from the Asian Games,” said the release.
IWLF secretary Sahdev Yadav told The Hindu that “there will be no replacement for Mirabai.”
National chief coach Vijay Sharma welcomed the 24-year-old lifter’s decision.