Arshad Nadeem backs National Games for unearthing 'new talent'

KARACHI: Pakistan's Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem pinned high hopes on the 35th National Games, set to be held here from December 6 to 13, to pave the way for the emerging athletes into the limelight.

Nadeem, while addressing the media on the sidelines of the Games' star-studded opening ceremony, underway here at the National Bank Stadium, expressed confidence that the event would help Pakistan unearth talented athletes in every discipline.

"National Games will bring out new talent for Pakistan," said Nadeem. "I am sure that good talent will emerge in every athletics event this time. Performers will emerge from here and will go on to make Pakistan's name shine on the international stage."

The star athlete further shared that the top performers of the Games will be called up for the national camp and may also get the opportunity to represent the country globally next year.

"Top performers of the National Games will be invited to a camp. There are plenty of events next year, and they may as well represent Pakistan in them," Arshad stated.

The javelin thrower, who successfully defended his gold medal at the Islamic Solidarity Games last month, shared that he was focused on the Diamond League, Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.

He further expressed satisfaction with his individual performances this year despite nursing the injury before revealing that he had become "completely fit".

"My focus is Diamond League, Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. I always try to perform better than before in each event," Nadeem stated.

"I performed well despite the injury this year. I am completely fit now, and [if my fitness remains the same] I will target the record throw."