Suspension Lifted: Bajrang Punia Cleared to Compete Pending Further Notice

The National Anti-Doping Agency's Disciplinary Panel has revoked the provisional suspension of wrestler Bajrang Punia. The suspension was initially imposed after Punia refused to provide a sample for a dope test. The panel awaits a formal Notice of Charge, which will determine the next steps.

The National Anti-Doping Agency's Disciplinary Panel (ADDP) has revoked the provisional suspension imposed on wrestler Bajrang Punia. The decision comes pending further action by NADA, which has yet to issue a formal Notice of Charge.

Bajrang Punia, a Tokyo Games bronze medallist, was initially suspended on April 23 after failing to provide a sample following selection trials. These trials were held on March 10 in Sonepat, for the men's national team for the Asian Olympic Qualifiers in Bishkek.

Punia's refusal to provide a sample was due to an unanswered query regarding expired testing kits. His lawyer confirmed that Bajrang is now free to compete, with further developments hinging on whether a Notice of Charge is issued by NADA.