AFI embarrassed after NADA ban on athlete

The yet-to-be-named athlete was suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) after being caught with meldonium at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala. AFI, which has struggled with the doping menace for several years, has gone into a huddle and would be seeking details from the coaches in Patiala. 

“The AFI is planning to call the coaches, who are stationed in NIS to find out about the incident. There will be an internal meeting to work out the way forward,” an AFI official told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The athlete faces the prospect of a four-year ban if guilt is established and he/she has until next Monday to explain his/her actions. 

“We conducted a search operation at NIS Patiala hostel in conjunction with SAI authorities and found the banned substance in possession of a track and field athlete,” NADA chief Navin Agarwal said.

“This search operation was conducted last month. I cannot disclose the identity and details of the athlete. He/she has been put under provisional suspension.” AFI been reeling under some high-profile dope scandals of late starting with sprinter Dharambir Singh, who was dropped from the Rio Olympic Games after testing positive.