New Delhi: Indian cricketers' refusal to sign the WADA anti-doping code has cast a shadow over their participation in next year's Asian Games, admits IOA General Secretary Randhir Singh.
"If you don't comply (with the WADA) as far as the rules and regulations are concerned you cannot participate in the Asian Games," said Randhir.
Indian cricketers, backed by the BCCI, are not ready to sign the whereabout clause of the code, which makes it mandatory for players to reveal three-months in advance their location for out of competition dope test.
"Rules and regulations of the Olympic Council of Asia are very clear, you have to comply by the WADA rules as fas as doping is concerned. So there is no way that anyone who does not comply can participate in the Asian Games," he added.
The Indian Olympic Association Secretary General, though, said he did not see the situation worsening for the players.
"I am very confident that this stand-off is not going to last. It's lack of understanding and I am sure we will get over it in few days. The Asian Games are still a year and four-five months away but if something like this happens it will depend on the OCA to take the decision," he said.
Asked if there was any chance that the 'whereabouts' clause could be dropped by the WADA, Randhir said he did not see any such possibility in the near future.