Probably the most eye-catching match-up was India vs Pakistan in 61kg freestyle on the last day of the Asian Wrestling Championships. Rahul Aware represented the home crowd while Muhammad Bilal made an appearance on behalf of the neighbours. The match ended up 5-1 in Rahul’s favour.
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Post-match Bilal gave an interview to ANI in which he praised Indians. “People of India are good, we’ll carry good messages from here and whoever will come from there (Pakistan) hopefully will bring good messages,” he said.
Bilal believes that a cricket match between the two neighbours can ease the tension on the borders.
“Everyone likes cricket in India and Pakistan. So if one match could be organised between the two countries, then I am sure this problem can be solved,” he said.
Pakistan’s participation at the championship was uncertain initially and were issued visas two-days prior to the kick off of the continental meet.
“There was uncertainty over the visa but it is good that we got the visa and played this competition. Next month, there will be Asian Championships for the Olympics qualification round. We will work hard and try to do well for this Olympic qualification round,” he added.
The Asian Wrestling Championships was a crucial tournament in order to play the Olympics qualification. “We had to play this tournament because for playing in the Olympics qualification it is important to play this tournament,” Bilal said.
