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Follow UsTejaswin Shankar (Image source- Twitter)
After being rejected for the Commonwealth Games, Tejaswin Shankar went through a roller-coaster of emotions. The Indian high jumper, who entered the Birmingham competition at the last minute, said he would "pick up the pieces" and prepare as best he can. Ending a month-long saga surrounding his participation, national record holder Shankar was permitted to compete in the Birmingham Games on Friday after the organisers approved his entrance at the request of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
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The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and Birmingham CWG organisers have now confirmed to the IOA that Shankar's entry has been accepted following a Delegate Registration Meeting (DRM). The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has been notified of the development by the IOA.
"I am at loss of words, I can't say now whether I am happy or sad. It has been a roller-coaster of emotions. I can't believe even now that I have been cleared for the CWG. I can't say I am surprised or shocked. It has been 'haan aur naa' (yes and no), it has been like that for five to six times, so it is hard to believe," Shankar said, as quoted by Firstpost.
At the Delhi High Court, the 23-year-old successfully argued against being left off the Indian athletics squad for the CWG. Arokia Rajiv, who was a member of the original 37-person team, has been replaced with Shankar's name, the AFI subsequently informed the court.
Having just returned from studying in the United States, Shankar must now act quickly to get his visa in order to make it to Birmingham in time. His qualifying round is set for August 2 and finals are set for August 3.
"I returned home from USA two days back to spend some time with my family since there is no competition. I was still having some sort of hope (of taking part in the CWG). "So, I went to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (in Delhi) to have some training. I did some weight training but as it started raining, I came back home," he said.
"I have endured a lot and I need to pick up the pieces. I am not thinking about medal or even the competition itself. I can only say that I will give my best at the Games," Shankar added.