Abhishek Pal served NADA notice over apparent doping violation

Indian distance runner Abhishek Pal, a member of the 72-person athletics squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, has been served a notice by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) regarding an apparent doping violation.

Sources indicate that a banned substance was detected in a very small quantity in Pal's sample. The substance is reportedly identified as a female fertility drug, a detail described by sources as surprising.

As of now, Pal has not been issued a provisional suspension, leaving his participation in the 5000m and 10,000m events uncertain. Pal is expected to request an investigation from NADA to seek a swift resolution before the Games begin. His recent competitive form includes a 10,000m title and a second-place finish in the 5000m at the National Inter-State Championships in June.