Saina Nehwal expressed surprise at the positive dope tests involving some Indian athletes, hinting at ignorance about WADA rules as the probable reason.
“Everyone knows about WADA (World Anti Doping Agency). There is a website which sportspersons can check if anything they are taking is permitted or not. When I had fever, I checked with my physio and coach about medicines I was taking,” said the Indian shuttler, replying to questions on the recent developments about drug abuse by Indian athletes.
Speaking after launching Titan watches' new product, HTSE (High Tech Self Energiser) collection on Wednesday, the world women's sixth ranked player denied knowledge of how drugs supposed to be on the banned list were easily available across the counter.
“I don't know which drugs are banned drugs can be bought. I don't take it,” said Saina. Asked about the reason for so many athletes getting caught in the doping net, she said: “It is sad. Maybe because of ignorance, may be the athletes did not know and took whatever their coach told them.”
Value of time
Earlier, she referred to the value of time in the making of a champion. “My coaches told me I was punctual for training. I was present atleast 10 minutes before training session started, so that I could plan about what I was going to do. Punctuality and discipline is important for sportspersons wishing to become champions.”
Titan HTSE watch can be charged by any light source of 200 lux, including candle light. Ajoy Chawla, Titan Vice President, and B.V. Nagaraj, Titan Head Innovation & Design were present at the launch with Saina. “It is truly exciting that an Indian watch brand has indigenously developed a technology of world class standards,” Saina said.
