NEW DELHI: India's participation in the IHF Women's Junior (U20) World Championships in China next month remains uncertain as the team awaits clearance from the sports ministry and the Sports Authority of India (SAI). The tournament is scheduled to take place in Jinzhong from June 24 to July 5, but with the deadline for final entries approaching, the lack of official sanction has left players in a state of uncertainty.
Dispute Between Rival Bodies Causes Delay
According to SAI sources, the delay stems from an ongoing dispute between two rival bodies – the Handball Association of India (HAI) and the Handball Federation of India (HFI). Neither federation enjoys recognition from the ministry due to internal disputes, factionalism, and multiple claimants.
HAI Seeks Urgent Approval
The HAI, which is recognized by the International Handball Federation (IHF) and the Asian Handball Federation (AHF), said that approval is urgently needed to confirm participation, arrange travel, and pay the participation fee of euro 170 per athlete. “If clearance does not come, we will send the team at our own expense. Athletes should not suffer due to administrative issues,” a federation source said.
India Qualified After Strong Asian Championship Performance
India qualified for the event after a strong showing at the Junior Asian Championships in Kazakhstan. The team's participation now hangs in the balance as the administrative deadlock continues.
