Javelin Thrower DP Manu Faces Doping Suspension

Tribune News Service

Vinayak Padmadeo

New Delhi, June 27

Javelin thrower DP Manu’s hopes of competing in the Paris Olympics have taken a hit after he received a provisional suspension. Manu was in line to be the third Indian javelin thrower at the Games, following Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Jena, through the world ranking quota. Currently ranked 15th, Manu was almost certain to qualify, but the suspension has now put his participation in doubt.

A source from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) confirmed that Manu has been implicated in a doping issue. “It is confirmed that he has received a notice, although it is unclear if it is a notice of charge or for some other violation,” the source said.

Manu’s name was initially on the list for the National Championships in Panchkula but is now absent from the updated start list.

Interestingly, Manu set the meet record with a throw of 84.35 meters in 2022.

Meanwhile, his coach Kashinath offered a different reason for Manu’s absence, stating that he is currently dealing with an injury. “Manu has a minor back injury that he recently sustained. It’s not serious, but we didn’t want to take any risks, which is why he’s not competing in Panchkula,” the Army coach explained. “He is currently at the Army Sports Institute in Pune, and since he is comfortably placed in the qualification race, we decided not to rush his return,” he added.

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