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Both athletes, who hold national records in their disciplines, had been included in the 75-member Indian squad only after receiving late fitness approvals. They had previously missed the Indian Athletics Series Final in New Delhi on September 10, citing what were then described as minor issues—a knee stress concern for Yarraji and a calf muscle pull for Chithravel.
Concerns Over Private Training Oversight
The governing body is now turning its attention toward the private entities and individual coaches responsible for the athletes' training programs. An official source indicated that the federation intends to hold these external parties accountable for the injury setbacks that occurred on the international stage. The scrutiny highlights a growing tension between national team management and the private training setups that many elite Indian athletes now utilize.
The impact of these injuries was immediate and visible at the Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium. Yarraji, who returned to competition this year following surgery in July 2025 to repair an ACL tear in her right knee, was forced to withdraw from the women's 100m hurdles heats. Officials reported that she experienced pain during her final warm-up session in rain-affected conditions, rendering her unable to compete.
Competition Day Setbacks
Praveen Chithravel’s exit was even more distressing. The triple jumper attempted his opening jump but was unable to complete the effort, leaving the competition area in visible discomfort while clutching his calf. He was subsequently transported from the venue in a wheelchair, with an Indian team coach confirming that the injury was the sole reason for his departure from the event.
The withdrawals are a significant blow to India’s medal prospects at the Games. Both Yarraji and Chithravel were viewed as podium contenders, having secured silver and bronze medals respectively in the previous edition of the Asian Games held in China. The AFI’s move to investigate the circumstances surrounding these injuries marks a critical step in reviewing the protocols for athletes training outside of the national camp system.
