Mumbai, April 23 (NationPress) Pakistan's Olympic javelin throw champion Arshad Nadeem has officially turned down an invitation to join the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin meet in Bengaluru, as reported by Pakistani media.

Arshad Nadeem pointed to a conflict with his prior commitments as the reason for his withdrawal from the Neeraj Chopra Classic, a one-day event scheduled to be held at the Sri Kanteerva Stadium in Bengaluru on May 24.

"I have opted out of the invitation because my schedule was set a year in advance, and I will be participating in an Asian meet in South Korea starting May 27," Arshad stated, according to Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net). Currently, he is enjoying a break in his hometown, Mian Channu.

Arshad is expected to return to Pakistan soon and will begin preparations for the World Athletics Championship slated for September in Tokyo.

While earlier reports suggested that Arshad Nadeem was considering accepting the invitation upon receiving it, the gold medallist from the Paris Olympic Games ultimately decided against it. This change was influenced by the rising political tensions between the two nations following a terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Another potential reason for Arshad's choice not to participate in the NC Classic is the necessity of obtaining permission from the Pakistan government. He was cautious about getting embroiled in the increasing tensions between the two countries, which might have led to his invitation being rescinded.

Neeraj and Arshad have maintained a friendly relationship and camaraderie over the last five years while competing against each other. Neeraj secured a gold medal at the last World Athletics Championship held in Budapest, Hungary, with Arshad finishing as the silver medallist.

At the Paris Olympic Games, Arshad Nadeem established an Olympic record to clinch the gold medal, while Neeraj took home the silver.