The 22-year-old had opted to represent Pakistan in the South Asian Karate Championship instead of competing in the World Premier League in Indonesia this month.
The Indian government did not issue visas to a 50-member Pakistan contingent, which included men’s, women’s and junior teams, thereby shattering Abbas’ dream of defending his title successfully.
“It’s something we have to deal with professionally, but personally it is very disappointing,” Abbas told The Express Tribune. “I really wanted to defend our title in the South Asian Championship. I even skipped the World Premier League to represent my country in India.”
“In karate, the Word Premier Leagues are very important as they help improve and maintain our rankings. But I wanted to give Pakistan priority; so obviously, not getting the visas was heart-breaking.”
Meanwhile, Abbas said that he has decided to train in Islamabad to prepare for another World Premier League event, which will take place in Japan in August.
“I’m staying in Pakistan for training with the national camp instead of heading back to Dubai. I know I can’t afford to leave out on another league right now.”
He also vowed to leave no stone unturned when it comes to preparing for the Asian Games in September and the World Karate Championship three weeks later.
“I’m going to maintain my weight and train harder. Athletes from smaller countries like ours have to go the extra mile,” said Abbas. “So I’m going to make sure that if I compete, I win convincingly.”
Published in The Express Tribune, June 26th, 2014.
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