SAI Defends Boxing India's Decision to Showcause Sarita Devi

Sports Authority of India (SAI) Director General Jiji Thomson on Monday defended Boxing India's (BI) decision to shoot off a showcause notice to suspended female pugilist L Sarita Devi, her husband and personal coach for their unauthorised presence near the boxing ring during the Incheon Asian Games.

"There must be some sound reasons for it. We have seen some video clippings of what Sarita's husband and personal coach did, which are not acceptable even to us. I can't blame BI (BAI) on taking a tough stance on that," Thomson said.

"There are certain well-laid out practices we need to follow in a sporting arena. A participant may not agree with the decision of the officials but he or she should accept the decision."

The SAI DG also gave example of legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's behaviour when he was given out leg before the wicket while ducking a low bouncer during a Test match in Australia 1999.

"We have seen Sachin getting out during a Test match in Australia but the legend didn't complain about it. He looked at the umpire and that was enough to suggest that he is unhappy with the decision. We are also not happy with the outcome of Sarita's match," he said.

However, he hoped that the Indian pugilist won't get a harsh decision from the International Boxing Association (AIBA).

"She has apologised and we are hopeful that AIBA will consider that," he said.