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SAI instructed players receiving support from schemes such as TOPS, NSF and TAGG to confirm their intent and availability to represent the tricolour at international events.
Sports Authority Of India. (X)
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) issued an order to Indian tennis stars who have received financial assistance through various schemes to prioritise representing the nation and added that failure to turn up for national duty without valid justification would result in the recovery of funds from the players.
SAI instructed players receiving support from schemes such as TOPS, NSF and TAGG to confirm their intent and availability to represent the tricolour at events such as the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, Asian Games and Olympics.
SAI asked players who receive assistance from the Target Asian Games Group to pen an acknowledgement that the financial support carries with it the responsibility to contribute to the nation’s sporting goals.
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“The above tennis competitions hold significant national pride. Therefore, it is important that all players benefiting from the support, provided under these schemes prioritize representing India if selected by the All India Tennis Association,” the order read.
“We would also like to inform you that, in the event of selection by the NSF, should you decide not to participate without valid justification, the financial assistance provided to date will be subject to recovery in accordance with the applicable guidelines,” it continued.
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Indian Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup team skippers Rohit Rajpal and Vishal Uppal termed the order as a welcome one that would serve the improvement of the sport in the nation.
“The government wanted the players to be accountable and there is nothing wrong in it. The government has added players names for support but it also wants them to be available for national duty when required,” Rajpal said.
“An excellent move. Representing India, our great nation is the biggest honour and should be non negotiable specially if you receive government support,” Uppal added.
(With Inputs From PTI)
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