Asian Games: Former World Champion Sorry for Sarita Devi; All Praise for Mary Kom
Former World Boxing champion Aruna Mishra said Sarita Devi should have accepted her bronze medal at the Asian Games as it was for the nation.
Former World Boxing champion Aruna Mishra on Wednesday alleged that the adverse decision against Sarita Devi has robbed her off a gold in the Asian Games, but opined the boxer should have accepted the bronze medal as it was for the nation.
"The decision against her was atrocious. It was a clear bout in favour of Sarita. But it was shown as a close affair before knocking her out of the gold medal contention," Aruna told PTI here.
The nine-time national champion said, "We expected two gold medals - one from Mary Kom and another from Sarita. But the referee disappointed us." (Day 12 Highlights)
"I understand what a sportsperson goes through during such circumstances. But she should have accepted the bronze medal without any protest on the podium as she represents the country and the medal is for India," added the 2005 world women's champion and gold medallist in the 2011 World Police Championship.
Aruna, who had been a member of Indian boxing teams in which Mary Kom was a member several times, was hopeful of making a comeback in the sport after she had a baby.
"Mary Kom is 54 kg and I fight in the 62 kg category. We have been in the Indian team several times. I am very happy for her and I wish she continues with her gold-medal winning-spree."
"I took a break last year for delivery before participating in the Indian Police Championships in November, 2013 and won the gold medal," Aruna said, expressing optimism that she would work hard to be back in the ring at the international level.