Pakistani player represents India in kabaddi tournament in Bahrain
A controversy has erupted after Pakistani kabaddi player Ubaidullah Rajput was seen representing an Indian team during a kabaddi tournament held in Bahrain, prompting the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) to take notice and initiate disciplinary proceedings.
According to media reports, Rajput was spotted wearing the Indian team’s jersey and holding the Indian flag during the tournament, triggering strong reactions within Pakistan’s sporting circles and on social media.
Following the incident, the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation’s General Council convened an emergency meeting to discuss the matter. Federation Secretary Rana Sarwar confirmed that the meeting, called by PKF Chairman Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, is scheduled to take place on December 27.
Sarwar clarified that although 16 Pakistani players participated in the Bahrain tournament, none were officially representing Pakistan at the national level. He stressed that the federation had neither granted permission nor issued no-objection certificates (NOCs) for their participation.
According to the PKF, the players formed a privately organised team that allegedly used Pakistan’s name without informing the federation or seeking approval from the relevant authorities.
The federation expressed particular concern over Rajput’s decision to play for an Indian side and publicly display the Indian flag, terming the act a serious breach of sporting conduct.
Rana Sarwar stated that a detailed inquiry would be conducted and strict action would be taken against those found responsible. He also warned that individuals or organisers who promoted the event without authorisation would face consequences.
The PKF reiterated that while mixed-nationality teams may be allowed in private club-level events, representing another country and displaying its national flag is unacceptable, adding that the federation would not tolerate any activity that harms Pakistan’s image in international sports.
