The Delhi High Court has strongly criticised the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) over its decision to declare wrestler Vinesh Phogat ineligible for domestic competitions following her maternity break. During proceedings related to Phogat’s petition challenging her exclusion from upcoming selection trials, the court questioned the federation’s departure from its earlier selection practices and observed that motherhood is celebrated across the country and should not become a ground for exclusion. The court directed the Centre to constitute an expert committee to evaluate Phogat’s case and ensure that the interests of the sport remain the priority amid ongoing disputes involving the wrestler and the federation. Phogat had approached the High Court after WFI introduced new eligibility criteria for the 2026 Asian Games selection trials scheduled later this month. Under the revised rules, only wrestlers who secured medals in competitions during 2025 and 2026 were eligible to participate. Since Phogat had not competed after the Paris Olympics 2024, the rules effectively ruled her out. Dispute rooted in comeback after retirement The decorated Indian wrestler, who had announced …