Asian Games-bound athlete Abhishek Pal served notice by NADA for doping violation

Indian long-distance runner Abhishek Pal, who is set to represent the country at the upcoming Asian Games, has been served a notice by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) regarding an alleged anti-doping rule violation. While the development has cast a shadow over his participation in the continental event, it is understood that the athlete has not yet been placed under a provisional suspension.

Pal was recently named in the 72-member Indian athletics squad to compete in the 5000m and 10,000m events. According to sources familiar with the situation, the notice follows the detection of a banned substance in his sample. The quantity of the substance identified is reportedly very small, and there are indications that the compound in question may be a fertility drug typically associated with female health treatments.

The athlete, who has previously undergone training stints in the United States, has been in notable form throughout the current season. During the National Inter-State Championships held in June, he secured a gold medal in the 10,000m race and a silver medal in the 5000m event. His recent track record also includes a bronze medal performance in the 10,000m at the 2023 Asian Championships, establishing him as a key member of the national athletics contingent.