New Delhi, Nov 4: She has started training for around three weeks at Rohtak, under the careful observation of Mandeep Singh. Still Sakshi Malik avoided participating in the recently concluded national championship, held in Uttar Pradesh.

Sakshi Malik skips national championship, rakes up controversy

As a result, the first female Olympic medal winning (bronze) wrestler from India has not been able to get a berth in the senior national team for the Commonwealth Wrestling championship that will take place in Singapore on Saturday and Sunday (Nov 5 and 6).

Among the 16-member female wrestling team, noticeable name is Ritu Phogat, the youngest daughter of Mahavir Phogat. But Mandeep Singh seems little bit of upset with Sakshi's decision of not participating in the national championship.

Speaking on the issue over phone from Rohtak, Mandeep said, “She has not yet gained the full fitness although she has been working on it for last three weeks. But in between training she also had to attend functions. Still, I feel she could have brought medal from Commonwealth Wrestling championship if she had participated in the national championship."

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I have been watching her for the last three weeks in the training. Despite the fact that she is not fully fit, Sakshi is looking more mature as a wrestler than before. She is being able to improvise her style. And this is the sign of big wrestler. That is why I was feeling that she might have gone to Singapore."

Sakshi, when asked about her decision to skip national championship, said, “Due to unavoidable circumstances I did not participate in the national championship. But I have regained fitness almost to the level I belonged before. I will require a couple of weeks more to reach my best."

The ace wrestler and her coach are aiming at Asian Championship now which is scheduled to be held in February, 2017. Mandeep also emphasised on Pro Wrestling League where Sakshi will have an extensive practice by participating in the championship.

“She will be getting good practice by taking part in the Pro Wrestling League."

OneIndia News