The Pakistan Olympics Association (POA) and the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) are gearing up to conduct random doping tests on athletes in preparation for the Asian Games 2023, according to sources. The testing program, which has been meticulously arranged, will involve approximately 30 to 40 athletes.
Both the POA and PSB have collaboratively decided to place a special emphasis on sports with a history of doping issues, specifically highlighting Weightlifting, Athletics, and Kabaddi players. The Pakistan Weightlifting Association has grappled with doping-related challenges, as evidenced by recent positive tests during the 34th National Games held in May 2023.
Sources suggest that the doping tests are slated to commence this upcoming weekend. It’s noteworthy that the Hangzhou Games are scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 8.
Pakistan is set to participate in a wide array of sports, including Archery, Athletics, Bridge, Badminton, Boxing, Cricket, Climbing, E-sports, Fencing, Golf, Hockey, Kabaddi, Karate, Rowing, Sailing, Shooting, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Taekwondo, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Wrestling, and Wushu.
However, several prominent sports, including Judo, Equestrian, Baseball, Football, and Gymnastics, will be missed due to funding constraints and delays in confirming entries, leading Pakistani athletes to sit out these competitions.
