Dope scandal hits Games, as India aim for more medals

Mon, Oct 11 10 01:08 PM

New Delhi, Oct 11 (PTI) The Commonwealth Games was today hit by a dope scandal when Nigerian women''s 100m gold medallist Osayemi Oludamola tested positive for a banned stimulant and was placed under provisional suspension pending a test of her ''B'' sample. After the absence of any doping cases in the first seven days, competitions on the eighth day of the Games started with reports coming out that the first positive result had come in which were later confirmed by CGF President Michael Fennell. "I regret to announce that a positive dope case has come out. Nigeria''s Osayemi Oludamola has tested positive for methylhexaneamine and under anti-doping rules of the Games, she has been handed a provisional suspension," Fennell said. "Under anti-doping procedures she has been notified and she has requested for a ''B'' sample testing. The ''B''sample testing will be done today and her hearing will also be held today," he added. Asked whether the gold medal has been taken back from the Nigerian, the CGF chief said, "At the moment no decision has been taken about the medal. She has been put under provisional suspension." The gold Oludamola won came in dramatic circumstances when Australian Sally Pearson was stripped of her medal in the women''s 100m sprint for a false start. The Nigerian had crossed the finish line in second place behind the Aussie woman and was later awarded the gold when Pearson was punished for jumping the gun. On the field of play, India were again looking forward to another successful medal harvest to maintain their second spot in the table behind front runners Australia. The expectations are huge, especially from their star-studded boxing squad who have till now competed under the shadow of the host country''s sharp shooters, powerful grapplers and fast rising archers who have scooped up a sackful of medals. Seven boxers, including Olympic Games bronze medallist Vijender Singh, have made it to the semi finals to be held today and assured themselves and the country of as many medals. Even a loss at this stage would assure all seven boxers of at least a bronze, but it''s certain all of them would be gunning for the gold. The seven are Anandeep Singh (lt.-fly), Suranjoy Singh (fly), Jai Bhagwan (lt. welter), Manoj Kumar (lt. welter), Dilbag Singh (welter), Vijender Singh (middle) and Paramjeet Samota (super heavy). More PTI Team SSR MRM

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