New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) In an impassioned statement, renowned wrestler Vinesh Phogat has criticized the Haryana Wrestling Association for what she perceives as unjust selection criteria for the Federation Cup 2026.

Vinesh voiced her concerns regarding the association's choice to restrict trial opportunities solely to those who were 2025 senior state medallists or had competed in international events in 2025. She questioned the logic behind excluding 2024 national medallists and athletes who could not participate in the Senior Nationals 2025 due to age limitations.

“The selection criteria set by the Haryana Wrestling Association for the Federation Cup 2026 are profoundly unfair. Limiting trial opportunities to only 2025 Senior State medallists and select international competitors is a disservice to countless dedicated wrestlers. Have 2024 national medallists suddenly lost their eligibility? Is a medal from the Sub Junior Nationals now deemed worthless?”

“Are injured athletes being treated as outcasts? Wrestlers who could not compete in the Senior Nationals 2025 due to age restrictions are still eligible for 2026,” Phogat stated on X.

The athlete highlighted that such esteemed events are “every athlete’s aspiration” and lamented that the current criteria could jeopardize the careers of wrestlers who have dedicated years to representing their nation.

“This year features significant tournaments like the Asian Games and the World Championships. Competing in these events and securing medals for the country is a dream for every athlete. Yet, these rules are effectively eliminating chances and posing a serious threat to their futures.

“This situation is not merely an injustice to the sport; it mocks the lives and challenges of athletes. After years of hard work, what options do our wrestlers have?” she stressed.

Vinesh did not hold back in asserting that the absence of fair trials at the state level is hindering the emergence of new talent in Indian wrestling. She passionately called for open trials, asserting that genuine talent can only be identified on the mat.

“Currently, even at the state level, fair trials are lacking. How can we expect new talent to rise? If we desire fair selection, open trials are essential. Talent must be recognized on the mat; failing to provide a chance for a player to showcase their abilities is a significant betrayal,” she emphasized.

In her concluding remarks, Phogat appealed to Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Nayab Saini to step in and ensure fairness for the state’s wrestlers. “Honourable Chief Minister Sir @cmohry @NayabSainiBJP, please address this issue and guarantee justice for Haryana’s wrestlers,” she concluded.