Neeraj Chopra: Desperation has suddenly descended on Indian sports circles. India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has decided to withdraw from all the remaining competitions of the 2026 season due to injury. As a result, he will not be seen in the upcoming Asian Games. Neeraj was one of India’s biggest gold claimers in this competition. His absence is undoubtedly a big blow for the Indian athletics team.
Who benefits because there is no water?
Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharonga Pathiraga can benefit the most in Neeraj’s absence. He has been showing great consistency in javelin throw recently. Pathirage established his name by throwing huge distances in one competition after another. As a result, in the absence of Neeraj, his name is emerging as one of the main contenders for the Asian Games gold medal.
A throw of more than 92 meters
Pathirag’s performance in the current season has been his biggest strength. At the Zurich Diamond League, he threw 92.07 meters and won the competition. Before that, his javelin throw at the Rome Diamond League reached 92.67m. In other words, this Sri Lankan athlete has proved his ability by crossing the 92 meter barrier several times.
Sona Pathiraga in Commonwealth too
Recently, Pathiragay also performed brilliantly in the Commonwealth Games. There he won the gold medal with a throw of 89.75 meters. On the other hand, Neeraj Chopra bagged the silver medal with a season’s best throw of 85.83 meters. As a result, Pathiraga is in great form in terms of recent performances as well. Neeraj’s absence is expected to boost his confidence.
What did Neeraj say?
Talking about his injury on social media, Neeraj said that he was regaining his desired rhythm after throwing the best throw of the season in Lausanne. But then he injured his ankle ligament during practice. After discussions with doctors and the team, he has decided to withdraw from all competitions for the rest of the 2026 season. As a result, he is not returning to the Asian Games.
Golden opportunity ahead of Pathirag
With no challenger like Neeraj Chopra, Rumesh Tharanga Pathirag has a big chance at the Asian Games 2026. His confidence is high after his recent throw of over 92m and Commonwealth gold. Of course, the performance on the day of the competition will have the final say. However, it can be said that Pathirag’s path to winning javelin throw gold became much easier in Neeraj’s absence.