NAURAJ’S COACH ‘GROUNDED’

Stewart will not be accompanying high jumper to Asian Games

HIGH jumper Nauraj Singh Randhawa will be a lone ranger at the upcoming Asian Games as his Australian coach Alex Stewart has been ‘grounded’ by the National Sports Institute (NSI) following his controversial behaviour at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April.

This was confirmed by threetime Sea Games gold medallist Nauraj.

“My coach will not be with me because of the media coverage during the Commonwealth Games where it was reported that he coached me as well as Australian Brandon Starc at the same time.

“He has been grounded, and the coach also said he does not want to go for the Asian Games as well,” said Nauraj.

In Gold Coast, Stewart, who was in Malaysia’s official Commonwealth Games attire, caused an uproar when he hugged Starc and handed the high jump gold medallist the Australian flag at the Carrara Stadium.

Asked about his feelings competing without a coach: “I can stand on my own feet. I have competed without him (Stewart) before.

“I am not saying it is good... it is always better to have a coach during a tournament. However, I will do my best, even though Stewart won’t be there,” said the 26-year-old.

Stewart, who returned from Australia on Sunday, will only be in Malaysia for a week to coach Nauraj and Lee Hup Wei.

“He will be teaching us about technical aspects of jumping, as it is difficult to learn via video recordings.

“His presence will help me get instant feedback,” said Nauraj.