R

ecent poor performance of subcontinent countries in the London Olympics proves that, as in other fields of life, the graph of sports is also falling in these countries.

Pakistan’s 23 member squad did not get a single medal in any event. Their hockey team lost an important match against Australia by 7-0 and the performances of other athletes were also very ordinary.

India’s population is more than the US and only a little less than China, but the Indian squad only managed three medals. The Indian hockey team only came in 12th on the points table. The true realty is that political influence, lack of merit and poor training facilities are the main causes of the poor performances of athletes and hockey players.

In key sports, most appointments are politically motivated. Both countries have very poor training facilities. Athletes and players from poor areas don’t get any financial support from their governments.

The popularity of cricket in Pakistan and India means that governments of both countries are unable to encourage other sports. Several poor and small African countries managed to get medals in athletics and indoor sports events.

The reality is, due to the lack of government support, poor training facilities and financial difficulties, athletes just can’t compete with US, Chinese and European players.

Khawaja Umer Farooq
Jeddah