Pakistani athletes to undergo dope tests ahead of Asian Games 2023

KARACHI: Ahead of the Asian Games 2023, the Pakistan Olympics Association (POA) and the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) are getting arrangements to conduct random doping tests for athletes.

According to media reports, preparations for the testing programs have been finalised, with approximately 30 to 40 players expected to undergo testing.

The reports indicated that the POA and the PSB have teamed up to mainly target sports with a history of low doping test results, specifically focusing on Weightlifting, Athletics, and Kabaddi players.

Read More:  Second rider dies in centenary Manx GP qualifying

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Weightlifting Association has encountered challenges in dealing with doping issues, as evidenced by positive doping tests among Athletics and Weightlifting players during the recent 34th National Games held in May 2023.

Nonetheless, the insiders have indicated that the doping tests for players would be scheduled to start this weekend.

It is pertinent to note that the Hangzhou Games are scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 8.

The reports said that Pakistan will be competing in a wide range of sports at the Asian Games 2023 such as Archery, Athletics, Bridge, Badminton, Boxing, Cricket, Climbing, E-sports, Fencing, Golf, Hockey, Kabbadi, Karate, Rowing, Sailing, Shooting, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Taekwondo, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Wrestling, and Wushu.

However, due to funding constraints and delays in confirming entries, Pakistan will not be represented in some major sports like Judo, Equestrian, Baseball, Football, and Gymnastics.