LAHORE: Pakistan’s Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem will skip the Lausanne Diamond League and instead travel to South Africa for training.
Nadeem’s name initially appeared on the entry list for the August 21 event. However, he has chosen training over competition after the Commonwealth Games.
The 28-year-old is currently training at Punjab Stadium in Lahore. He will join a two-week camp in Potchefstroom after receiving his South African visa.
Nadeem has previously completed two training stints in Potchefstroom. Therefore, the venue offers him a familiar environment before his upcoming international commitments.
Focus Shifts to Major International Events
The Pakistani star plans to compete at the World Athletics Ultimate Championships in Budapest from September 6 to 14.
He will then represent Pakistan at the Asian Games. Consequently, his South Africa camp will form an important part of his preparations.
Nadeem’s decision follows a disappointing Commonwealth Games campaign in Glasgow. The defending champion finished ninth in the men’s javelin final.
He recorded a best throw of 77.41 metres and failed to reach the final eight after three rounds.
The result marked a setback for Nadeem after his Olympic success. However, he has now shifted attention toward improving his preparations.
Meanwhile, the Lausanne Diamond League will feature leading javelin throwers despite Nadeem’s absence.
Nadeem will travel to South Africa on the first available flight once authorities issue his visa.
His training camp could provide valuable preparation before the season’s remaining major competitions.
