Arshad sets sights on World Athletics Championships

Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem is set to depart for Tokyo on September 9 to participate in the World Athletics Championships scheduled to begin in the Japanese capital on September 13.

“Yes, we will travel to Tokyo on September 9. That will give us nearly a week for acclimatization, which should be sufficient,” Arshad’s coach, Salman Butt told Nukta.

The men’s javelin throw event will kick off with the qualification round on September 17, followed by the final on September 18.

Arshad, who underwent surgery on his left calf recently in England, is now focused on regaining peak form.

Since his historic gold medal at the Paris Olympics last year, Arshad has competed only once, at the Asian Championships in Korea, where he clinched gold.

“We are working hard, and the training is going well. He is feeling fit, and we still have time to further sharpen his preparation,” said Butt.

Challenging assignment

On the other hand, the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo present a new challenge altogether for Arshad, given the fact that he will have to compete with three to four in-form rivals.

The defending champion Neeraj Chopra recently finished second at the Diamond League in Zurich. Although he is battling a groin issue, but is hopeful to regain full form for the main event.

Germany’s Julian Weber, who won gold in Zurich with an impressive throw of 91.51 metres, is another major contender.

Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago took third place with a throw of 84.95 metres.

“The World Championships are different. They come with their own pressure; it’s not like a league event. Competing on a major global stage demands something more,” Butt said.

Arshad’s current preparations

Meanwhile, Arshad’s coach also noted that recent rain has affected their training schedule, but they are utilizing indoor facilities the best they could. “Yes, rain has been an issue but we are making use of available alternatives,” said Butt, who has coached Arshad since his fifth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics held in 2021 due to the pandemic.”

A source close to Arshad confirmed that he currently feels no fitness concerns.

“He has resumed throwing and looks to be in great shape. If he stays fit, he will give his best InshaAllah. This is another big opportunity for him to bring pride to the country,” the source said.