CWG 2022: We are not rivals, we are part of javelin family, says Arshad Nadeem on friendship with Neeraj Chopra | Commonwealth Games 2022 News
Neeraj won the historic silver medal at the World Championships last month with a throw of 88.13m like Arshad 5th place after becoming the first Pakistani to reach the final round.
The Indian has withdrawn from the CWG due to a groin strain while Arshad, who continues to treat an elbow injury, is expected to be on the podium with Grenada’s Anderson Peters, favorite for gold. Peters has won gold medals at the recent Worlds.
“Neeraj bhai is my brother. I miss him here. God bless him with the best health and I can play with him soon,” Arshad told PTI.
‘Bromance’ has formed among Indo-Pak rivals since their entry into the South Asian Games in 2016 in Guwahati.
Four years ago, when Neeraj won gold and Arshad won bronze at the Asian Games, the Indian tennis player did not fully restore the Pakistani athlete but everything did not happen again.
“He’s a good person. At first you two tend to be a bit reserved, when you get to know each other, you tend to be more open.
“We have a very good friendship. I hope he continues to perform for India and I continue to perform for my country. We both made an impact. We are like a family. “, the 25-year-old said.
5th place at Worlds is a reliable end for Arshad, who has returned from injury after Tokyo 2020 Olympic. He’s still wearing the same elbow wound.
“After the Tokyo Olympics, I went to Worlds after a long time, I feel good about my match. I have an elbow injury and am receiving treatment.”
Neeraj’s personal best of 89.94m is slightly below the 90m mark while Arshad’s best is 86.38.
“The way the coaches see it and the way I feel about my game, I have set myself a goal of 95m,” said Arshad, sounding quite optimistic.
Neeraj’s gold medal at the Olympics captured the nation’s imagination and made him an overnight star. Arshad has a long way to go but says he is also getting a lot of support from his government.
“The way Neeraj bhai has become famous in your country, I have received a lot of support from the government and the people. I am really grateful for that,” said Arshad, who hopes to be soon. compete in India again.
