Two-time Olympic champion Sushil Kumar says he has moved on from the Narsing Yadav controversy that had rocked Indian wrestling four years ago in the build-up to the Rio Olympics.

In July 2016, just before the Rio Games, wrestler Narsing cried foul after he tested positive and was banned for four years. The 74-kg wrestler had hinted that Sushil (Narsing didn’t name anyone in the police complaint though) might have had a hand in ensuring that his food was spiked. In March 2019, the Central Bureau of Investigation had dismissed the sabotage theory floated by him.

Sushil had moved to the 74-kg category after the 2012 London Olympics and was seeking a selection trial to decide on who would represent India at Rio.

With the Tokyo 2020 Games pushed to 2021 (July 23-August 8, 2021) due to the coronavirus crisis, Narsing, who completes his four-year ban in July this year, would be eligible for selection.

“Everyone deserves a second chance. So does Narsing. What happened in 2016, let’s not talk about the past. I have moved on and have nothing against him. I am ready to welcome him with open arms,” Sushil told The Telegraph.

Like everyone else, the lockdown has kept Sushil indoors but the wrestler is not complaining.

“I am practising hard to keep myself fit. I am doing the ropes, sit-ups and stuff like that. During a time like this, when there is so much uncertainty everywhere, you have to use the brain and not the brawn. Also, these 21 days have given me a chance to spend time with my family. It’s a win-win situation for me,” he said.

Sushil turns 37 next month and his detractors have cast a doubt on whether he would qualify for the Olympics. “I know there are people who think I am past my prime. If I remain injury-free, I would make them eat humble pie.”

Sushil doesn’t think the postponement would hamper his plans for Tokyo. “Yes, I would be one year older, but I would also get enough time to prepare. Age doesn’t matter if you know the game.”