Vivek Sable, the Mallakhamb Federation of Japan (MFJ) secretary, is still hopeful that players will get an opportunity to present mallakhamb as a demonstration sport at the Tokyo Olympics.

“The situation in Tokyo is quite challenging due to the COVID-19-caused emergency. We are coordinating with the Olympics organising committee to get an opportunity to showcase this wonderful sport during the closing ceremony,” Sable told mid-day. According to Sable, 37, around 10 to 12 players each from India and United States and as many players from Japan were supposed to demonstrate the skill of mallakhamb during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Games (July 23-August 8). However, considering the pandemic and restrictions, Sable said they are yet to receive the green signal.