Although, Vijender Singh’s name appeared on both the lists of boxers picked for the Commonwealth and the Asian Games, he criticised the Indian Boxing Federation (IBF) on Tuesday for “their inability to hold a transparent selection trials which led to the ouster of some of the more talented boxers” including his cousin brother Balwinder Beniwal (64kg).

“It’s not about my brother. There is nothing personal about my grouse,” said the 75kg boxer from Patiala. “Why were the boxers not shown the scores of their bouts? Why was it not held in front of the press? Why was it a closed-door affair?,” questioned the peeved Olympic medallist.

Vijender reckoned that apart from his brother, youth CWG gold-medallist and the reigning national champion Sunil Kumar (49kg) should’ve figured on the lists which were released on Tuesday.

Learning about Vijender’s complaint, IBF secretary general PK Muralidharan Raja spoke to the world No.1 in his weight category. “The selection trials were based on three-tier system. Firstly, the international referrees and judges were present at the event. Secondly, the selection committee members were taking notes of the fights while they were happening. Thirdly, every bout was recorded thus ruling out any foul play ,” said Raja, who also explained to Vijender in detail why Balwinder lost out.

But Vijender was still not convinced. “You can bring international officials but they are no angels from heaven. They can be partial too and that’s what has happened.”

On the other hand, Melbourne CWG gold medallist Akhil Kumar was all praise with the way the trials were conducted despite the selectors picking Chhote Lal Yadav ahead of him for the Asian Games. “Chhote is a good boxer and he deserves the chance. I’m happy with my selection for the CWG and I’m extremely happy with the way the trials were conducted. I’ve not seen a trial as intense as this. Earlier, the selectors would just make the boxers go through one or two rounds to guage their level. This time we were made to fight four fights of three rounds each. Every boxer got an equal chance to show their skill,” said Akhil.