The Indian men’s and women’s football teams have received approval to participate in the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, after the Sports Ministry decided to ease the existing selection criteria.Initially, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had declined clearance for the Indian football teams to compete in the Asian Games, citing their rankings outside the top-8 in Asia as the reason.In response to this situation, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) made an earnest appeal to the Sports Ministry, requesting permission for the men’s and women’s teams to represent India in this prestigious event.The coach of India’s men’s football team, Igor Stimac, also sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to help resolve the matter.The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, has decided to relax the rules to facilitate participation of both the teams, which were not qualifying as per the existing criterion.”Keeping in mind their latest performances in the recent times, the Ministry decided to grant the relaxation. I am sure they will put their best foot forward in the Asian Games and make our country proud,” he added.According to the ministry’s selection criteria for team events, only sides ranking in the top eight of the continental rankings of their respective sports will be allowed to travel for the Asiad.The Indian men’s team is ranked 18th in Asia, while the women’s side is ranked 11th.The Huangzhou Asian Games is scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 8 in China.
