Panel to quiz coaches on the Vikas Krishnan saga

VIKAS Krishan’s decision to hand a walkover to his semifinal opponent in the recent Asian Boxing Championships in Tashkent baffled the fraternity.
(L-R) Panel members Nirwan Mukherjee, Asit Banerjee & Rajesh Bhandari. | Express Photo Service
(L-R) Panel members Nirwan Mukherjee, Asit Banerjee & Rajesh Bhandari. | Express Photo Service

CHENNAI: Vikas Krishan’s decision to hand a walkover to his semifinal opponent in the recent Asian Boxing Championships in Tashkent baffled the fraternity. At a hearing convened by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) in New Delhi on Saturday, Vikas appeared before its disciplinary committee.

As reported by Express, the boxer’s move was prompted by assurances from influential quarters that it wouldn’t lead to sanctions. The panel wants to speak to coaches present in Tashkent, due to which the hearing will continue on Sunday. According to Asit Banerjee, who is heading the disciplinary committee, Vikas was handed a fair opportunity to present his case.

The hearing started at 10.30 am and went on till 2.30 pm. The boxer said he was satisfied with proceedings and was concentrating on training. Banerjee said that the committee, which also comprises of Rajesh Bhandari (Himachal Pradesh State Boxing Association president) and Nirwan Mukherjee (Uttarakhand Boxing Association president), wants to speak to other persons.

“We received material from federation officials and had a good look at them. We heard what Vikas had to say. The situation demands more inquiry. We will get in touch with all coaches and officials who were there in Tashkent and see what they have to say,” Banerjee told Express.

Vikas was forced to cancel his World Series of Boxing appearance — a semi-professional event — because of the case.

“I have given my version. I’m satisfied with the opportunity I got to explain. I have told the committee that whoever is guilty deserves to be punished,” the 2011 World Championship bronze medallist said.

It was reported earlier by this newspaper that Vikas had apparently been told by someone in the federation that skipping wouldn’t lead to serious sanction.

If this is found to be true, he is likely to be let off with a warning. “We have no intentions to disturb his training. We told him he can continue his routine,” Banerjee said. One of the seven boxers to have secured World Championships tickets, the middleweight (75kg) will have to wait until the end of the month to hear his fate. “It will take some careful investigation before a decision. No decision should be taken in haste,” Banerjee concluded.

anmol@newindianexpress.com

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