Arshad Nadeem embroiled in new fight with Pakistan sports authorities

Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem finds himself embroiled in a new row with the sports authorities in Pakistan. Arshad, who travelled to South Africa last week to train under his old coach Terseus Liebenberg ahead of two major international competitions next month, has been accused of traveling without obtaining the required No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).

The development has also raised questions over the arrangements surrounding the country's top athlete and his coordination with the sports authorities. An official source in the PSB said that Arshad did not inform the officials before leaving for South Africa. He said as per government regulations, all athletes have to obtain NOCs from their respective federations and more importantly from PSB before travelling abroad for competitions or training.

"Yes, he has not told anyone and it is officially recorded he didn't obtain any NOC from us. This might affect his future travel plans if he doesn't have a proper explanation," the official said.

Arshad decided to skip training in Lahore and travel to South Africa after facing criticism over his recent performance in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Arshad is now working with Liebenberg for the World Ultimate Athletics Championship in Hungary from September 11-13 before travelling to Japan for the Asian Games, scheduled from September 19 to October 4.

The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has had little involvement in Arshad's management after he won the Olympic gold medal in 2024, with the PSB and coach Salman Butt overseeing his affairs.

When contacted, Liebenberg, who has been working with Arshad in South Africa, said he was confident that Nadeem can rediscover his best form.

"All I know is that he persevered for many years to become Pakistan's first-ever individual Olympic champion," Liebenberg said.