Uncertainty looms over handball team’s World Championships campaign

NEW DELHI: India’s participation in the IHF Women’s Junior (U20) World Championships in China next month remains in doubt as the team awaits clearance from the sports ministry and Sports Authority of India (SAI). The tournament is scheduled in Jinzhong from June 24 to July 5, but with the deadline for final entries approaching, the lack of official sanction has left players in a state of uncertainty.According to SAI sources, the delay stems from an ongoing dispute between two rival bodies – Handball Association of India (HAI) and Handball Federation of India (HFI). Neither federation enjoys recognition from the ministry because of internal disputes, factionalism, and multiple claimants. The HAI, recognised by the international (IHF) and Asian (AHF) governing bodies, said the approval is urgently needed to confirm participation, arrange travel and pay euro 170 participation fee per athlete. “If clearance does not come, we will send the team at our own expense. Athletes should not suffer due to administrative issues,” a federation source said.India qualified for the event after a strong showing at the Junior Asian Championships in Kazakhstan.