Arshad Nadeem set to clash with Neeraj Chopra today

TOKYO: Pakistan’s star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem will be in action today as he lines up against India’s Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Germany’s Diamond League winner Julian Weber in the World Athletics Championships qualification round at Japan National Stadium.

The blockbuster field has drawn global attention, as it marks the first face-off between Nadeem and Chopra since the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the Pakistani thrower had to settle for silver behind his Indian rival. Chopra, who won gold in Budapest last year, is aiming to become only the third male javelin thrower in history to defend his World Championships title.

Nadeem, meanwhile, is eyeing a strong performance to underline his return to form. The 27-year-old from Mian Channu remains Pakistan’s biggest athletics hope and has consistently challenged the world’s best despite injuries and limited resources.

Arshad Nadeem seeks prayers ahead of Tokyo qualifier tomorrow

Tensions between the two South Asian athletes’ fan bases have been running high, particularly after the absence of a handshake during a recent Asia Cup cricket clash between India and Pakistan reignited rivalry narratives.

However, speaking in Tokyo, Nadeem played down the hype. “We’ve exchanged greetings here and there at the athletes’ hotel,” he said, refusing to be drawn into political undertones.

Chopra has opted not to give interviews until after Thursday’s final, while sports analysts believe Julian Weber’s presence could make the contest even more intense.

All eyes now turn to Tokyo, where Nadeem, Chopra, and Weber will launch their bids for glory. Handshakes or not, the real contest will be decided on the field.