Imphal, November 26: After the Indian Olympic Association had delisted certain disciplines from the Indian contingent to the Doha Asian Games (December 1 to 15), IOA has approved Sepak Takraw teams to participate in the Games under the condition that the players foot the bills themselves.

Even as all the 16 (9 men, 7 women ) Manipuri players selected for the Indian teams wish to take part in the continental Games, the players are not in a condition to afford the expenditure.

Adding to their woes was the instruction of the Sepak Takraw Federation of India secretary to report on November 28 if the teams were planning to go to Doha.

During a press meet held today in connection with the matter, the players drew the attention of the State Government and conveyed their desire for financial aid from the State Government.

Further, the players have been rendered helpless if they want to go for donation from the public due to lack of time.

Taking part in the press meet, secretary of the All Manipur Sepak Takraw Association conveyed the inability of the Association to help the players financially as the Association itself has been facing acute financial difficulties.

President of the All Manipur Sepak Takraw Association Olympic who has also been selected as manager of the Indian team said that the opportunity to take part in the Asian Games is a rare chance and should not be missed for want of money.

The players also echoed the same feeling reminding that it is the first time the Indian team is given the opportunity to take part in Sepak Takraw event of Asian Games.

Out of 12 players selected for the Indian team (men's), 9 belong to Manipur.

The selected players are Sanathoi, Rakeshor, Biken, Premananda, Kirankumar, Surjit, Jyotin, P Durjit and Geskant.

The women's team selected to represent India include 7 Manipuri players.

They are Ronibala, Romita, Mari, Bilashini, Aruna, Memi and Premila.

Another State player E Rameshwar has also been allowed to be included in the team.

The Sepak Takraw Federation of India has also appointed Th Muhindro of Manipur as team manager and coach respectively.

Notwithstanding the financial difficulties, the players are upbeat following their commendable performance in the Kings Cup held in September.

They said that they would play with all their hearts in the Asian Games in case they could go to Doha.

The team would participate in team, regu and double events.

Even though the Union Sports Ministry had denied financial assistance to the Sepak Takraw team, there is a provision for the Indian Olympic Association to provide kits and track suits to the players.

The officials maintained that they would put in their best efforts so that the team can participate in the Asian Games in view of the team's achievements and in the interest of future players.

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