Age Fraud in Swimming: PSB Bars Overage Swimmer From Under-12 Category After LHC Order

Age fraud in swimming has drawn a landmark decision from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), which has barred Abdul Hadi, a swimmer from Faisalabad, from competing in the Under-12 age category following directions from the Lahore High Court (LHC).

Age Fraud in Swimming: How the Case Began

The case dates back to 2024, when allegations emerged that the swimmer was misrepresenting his age to compete in a lower age category. Although Abdul Hadi claimed to be 11 years old, a medical examination conducted at the time reportedly established that he was overage.

PSB Announces Its Final Decision

Following nearly two years of legal proceedings, the Lahore High Court directed the Pakistan Sports Board to issue its decision on the matter. The PSB has now announced its final decision, disqualifying the swimmer from participation in the Under-12 category.

Why the Ruling Matters for Pakistani Sports

The decision is being viewed as an important step towards addressing age manipulation in Pakistani sports. Such practices undermine fair competition, deprive deserving young athletes of opportunities and raise questions about the credibility of sporting achievements.

The landmark ruling also sends a strong message that age-related eligibility rules must be respected and enforced to protect the integrity of sports in Pakistan.

Age Fraud in Swimming at a Glance

• Who: Abdul Hadi, a swimmer from Faisalabad
• Decision: barred from the Under-12 category by the Pakistan Sports Board
• Trigger: Lahore High Court directions after nearly two years of proceedings
• Background: a 2024 medical examination reportedly found him overage

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