National wrestling team arrives back to a hero's welcome

Gold medalist Inam Butt says the team, if provided appropriate support, can win gold at the Olympics as well

The national wrestling team that remained victorious at the Commonwealth Games in Australia received heroes welcome at Allama Iqbal International Airport on Wednesday.

The wrestlers were accorded a warm welcome as their fans and officials of the wrestling federation adorned them with flowers and bouquets.

Talking to media persons on the occasion, Inam Butt, who was conferred with gold, said he had requested the government prior to the event to provide funds, but it was not consented to. If the government provides befitting support, Pakistan can even win gold at the Olympics.



The government, he added, is requested to provide basic facilities to wrestlers, adding that he will continue to demonstrate winning performance for the national team.

Last week, Inam Butt won Pakistan its first gold medal in the 86kg freestyle wrestling.

The win moved Pakistan from a modest 31st position to 22nd in the rankings within a few hours courtesy Inam’s win, since before that they only had four bronze medals in their tally.

The 29-year-old triumphed over Nigeria’s Melvin Bibo 6-0 in the closing fight to earn the top spot on the podium.

Prior to his final fight, Inam beat Canada’s Alexander Moore and India’s Somveer in the semi-finals and quarter-finals, respectively. The champion began his winning campaign with a win over Australia’s Jayden Lawrence in his first match.