Post Pahalgam terrorist attack, Arshad Nadeem's presence at NC Classic completely out of question, says Neeraj Chopra

Neeraj Chopra, the poster boy of Indian athletics, and a two-time Olympic medallist was left disappointed after being questioned over his patriotism for inviting Pakistan's star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem to the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic, following Tuesday's tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives and injured many others.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE NEW DELHI, 25 APRIL

The 27-year-old Indian revealed that both he and his family have faced backlash for inviting Nadeem to the upcoming one-day event at the Sri Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on 24 May.

Clarifying that the invitation to Pakistan star Arshad Nadeem had been extended well before the Pahalgam terror attack, and was solely based on Arshad's status as the reigning Olympic gold medallist, with the aim of showcasing the world's best talent in India. Neeraj said that following the tragic incident, Arshad's participation is now "completely out of the question."

"I usually am a man of few words, but that doesn't mean I will not speak up against what I think is wrong. More so when it comes to questioning my love for our country, and the respect and honour of my family. There has been so much talk about my decision to invite Arshad Nadeem to compete in the Neeraj Chopra Classic, and most of it has been hate and abuse. They haven't even left my family out of it.