Chandigarh, Jan 19 (ANI): Parents of Indian ace shooter and Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra have expressed shock over the National Rifle Association of India’s (NRAI) move to bar him from the next two World Cups due to his unavailability for shooting trials.

Addressing reporters here on Monday, A S Bindra, Abhinav’ father, said he was very hurt by the NRAI’s decision.

“I am very sad and hurt by the decision of authorities for one of the greatest sportspersons of the country… I am unable to give any comment as I am unaware of the details… I would talk to the officials regarding this and I also want to request media to take a look into the issue. I am sure that if countrymen want Abhinav to play, then he would definitely participate in the event,” he said.

Babli Bindra, Abhinav’s mother, said: “I am very sad the way things are shaping up. I am very sad to see my son under unnecessary stress for the last couple of weeks,” she said.

The feud between NRAI and Abhinav Bindra has intensified in past few days.

The NRAI on Monday announced Bindra’s dropping from the Indian team for the World Shooting Cup because of his nonavailability for shooting trials.

Reportedly, frustrated at the unresponsive attitude of Indian sports authorities, Abhinav Bindra on January 16 had threatened to quit the game. (ANI)