SAI warns of declaring boxing assessment process ‘invalid’

NEW DELHI: The selection process for India’s boxing contingent for the upcoming CWG and Asian Games has run into trouble, following serious objections raised by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) against the Boxing Federation of India (BFI).Just a day before the assessment trials are scheduled to begin in NS NIS Patiala, the SAI has issued a stern warning, stating that the entire process could be declared “invalid” if the BFI fails to furnish critical details regarding its selection criteria and evaluation framework. The trials are scheduled to start with strength and conditioning tests on May 6 and 7, followed by knockout bouts from May 11 to 15 to determine final rankings. The SAI is of the view that the federation’s selection policy and procedures violate the sports ministry’s established guidelines. They have flagged the lack of transparency in the composition of the selection committee, evaluation panels, and the High-Performance Unit (HPU), which is expected to oversee athlete assessment during the national camp.In an official communication from its Target Olympic Podium Scheme division, a copy of which is with TOI, the SAI demanded detailed disclosures, including the names and qualifications of coaches and support staff, as well as the methodology and matrix to be used for evaluating boxers. It also raised objections over potential conflicts of interest, reiterating that coaches involved in the national camp must not participate in the selection process.“BFI is requested to share the details before commencement of the assessment, failing which the assessment will not be considered valid,” read the TOPS mail.The standoff has intensified after SAI earlier refused clearance to COAS Cup finalists for the trials.