Stranded Success: U-17 Indian Women Wrestlers' Airport Ordeal

The Under-17 Indian women wrestling team was stranded at Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan after missing a flight home post their triumphant World Championships campaign. Despite winning their first-ever team title, the wrestlers faced confusion and mismanagement in their travel arrangements.

The Under-17 Indian women wrestling team faced a major setback on Saturday at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan, when they missed their flight back home. This occurred after their victorious campaign at the World Championships.

Initially, the nine wrestlers and three coaches were scheduled on separate flights to India. Coaches Jai Bhagwan, Shilpi Sheoran, and Rekha Rani were booked on an Emirates flight with a stopover in Dubai, whereas the wrestlers had a different schedule via Qatar Airways. Mismanagement and lack of clarity over flight schedules left the young athletes stranded.

A source from the Indian contingent criticized the decision to book separate flights and called for better arrangements. The Wrestling Federation of India, currently suspended, stated efforts are underway to secure the first available flights and appropriate overnight accommodations for the wrestlers, marking a grim end to their exceptional eight-medal winning performance.

(With inputs from agencies.)