India Minister Slams Delhi Withdrawals

India sports minister M. S. Gill has criticised the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) after a number of top athletes have pulled out of competing in the Games.

Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt and Olympic champion Chris Hoy are the recent names to withdraw for the Games – highlighting the Olympics as their priority.

Bolt’s mass appeal will surely detract the viewing figures and popularity of the Games that will take place in India – despite initial security fears.

‘If these stars failed to turn up, then all our efforts stand waste. I again request (CGF president Mike) Fennell to bring these stars and not the thousands of officials,’ said Gill.

However, most of the participating countries will be sending their biggest delegations ever to the Games, set to be staged in Delhi.

But Gill added: ‘It’s a moral duty on the part of players to come and participate. I want A-list players and not B or C.’