Advised rest
The injury means that Neeraj's much-anticipated clash with Grenada's world champion Anderson Peters will not happen now.
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Secretary General Rajiv Mehta said Neeraj underwent an MRI scan on Monday (July 25) in the USA and has been advised one-month rest. "Team India javelin thrower Mr Neeraj Chopra had called me earlier today from the US to convey his inability to take part in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games owing to fitness concern," Mehta said.
Precautionary measure
"Following his participation in the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Mr Chopra had had an MRI scan done and, based on it, he has been advised a month's rest by his medical team," Mehta added.
According to sources close to the athlete, it is a minor groin strain but as a precautionary measure he has been asked to take rest.
Assisting in recovery
Athletics Federation of India (AFI) President Adille Sumariwalla said they are in touch with Neeraj to assist his recovery. "Neeraj has said that since he isn't100 per cent fit to compete at the Commonwealth Games," Sumariwalla said.
"Neeraj appeared to be struggling during the finals at the World Championships. We're in constant touch with him to assist his recovery," said India team's chef de mission Rajesh Bhandari.
Young prospects
The Commonwealth Games 2022 will be held from July 28 to August 8. A total of 72 nations are participating in Birmingham 2022, where a strong 214-member squad from India is in the fray.
In Neeraj's absence, two young prospects -- DP Manu and Rohit Yadav -- will now lead the Indian challenge in javelin throw at at Birmingham 2022.