Randhir Singh: Advocating Stronger Indian Participation in Asian Games

Randhir Singh, former international shotgun shooter and veteran sports administrator, urges BCCI to send India's best cricket teams to the Asian Games. Singh, poised to become the first Indian president of the Olympic Council of Asia, emphasizes the need for India-Pakistan sports relations and deplores the focus on financial gain over competitive spirit.

Former international shotgun shooter and veteran sports administrator Randhir Singh on Wednesday urged the BCCI to send the best cricket teams to the Asian Games, emphasizing the importance of popularizing the game on a continental and global scale.

Randhir is set to become the first Indian president of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) after emerging as the sole candidate for the top post, with elections slated for September 8. He stressed the need for increased sporting activity with Pakistan rather than traveling extensive distances for games across various disciplines.

Highlighting India's recent men's cricket gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023, Singh criticized the practice of sending 'B' teams, advocating for the inclusion of top players to genuinely popularize cricket. He also underscored the potential for India-Pakistan sports cooperation, noting Pakistan's support in past international bids.

(With inputs from agencies.)