Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh said it was Kumar's own decision and added no wrestler could be compelled to participate in national events before heading for international competitions.
"I am happy that Sushil Kumar is returning to the ring after a long time. However, this is his own decision. We can't force any player to take part in the national championship to ensure his participation in international competitions.
"At times, players are unable to take part in the national championships due to personal reasons or injury," he said.
Talking about the changes made to the rules of the game by the United World Wrestling - the international body controlling wrestling - Singh said the norms would be implemented from 2018.
Singh said the WFI was holding the current national championship on the basis of old rules to avoid any disadvantage to the country's wrestlers.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
