CWG 2018 | CGF reveals that India has not appealed against ‘no needle’ controversy

India were handed a massive blow on Friday (April 13) when race walker K T Irfan and triple jumper V Rakesh Babu were suspended and sent home after a needle was found in a cup in their bedroom at the athletes’ village.  

There has been no challenge against the suspension of the Indian athletes despite the Indian contingent's claims of pushing for an appeal. Hence, addressing the media in his daily briefing, CGF Chief executive David Grevemberg confirmed the same and denied the reports of India’s appeal. 

“I have not received an appeal, and such an appeal would go through the Court of Arbitration, Court of Sport. Regardless of the needle, there is a no needle policy. There is a clear policy, there was a breach of that policy and this isn't an isolated case (involving India), as we all know,” Grevemberg was quoted saying by News18. 

An Indian official revealed that they have not appealed and they need a proper legal opinion before going ahead. “The recommendation is for an appeal but we have to seek proper legal opinion before going ahead with it. It can't be rushed otherwise it will fall apart,” the official said. 

Irfan and Babu were done with their CWG campaign before they were asked to leave Games which is being held in Gold Coast. Irfan finished 13th in the 20km race walk while Babu injured his knee during the triple jump qualifiers and hence was ruled out of the finals.