KUALA LUMPUR: High jumper Nauraj Singh Randhawa will be a lone ranger at the upcoming Asian Games as his Australian coach Alex Stewart will not be in Indonesia following his controversial behaviour at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April.
This was confirmed by three-time Sea Games gold medallist Nauraj.
"My coach will not be with me because of the media coverage during the Commonwealth Games where it was reported that he coached me as well as Australian Brandon Starc at the same time.
"He has been benched, and the coach also said he does not want to go for the Asian Games as well," said Nauraj.
At the Gold Coast Games in April, Stewart who wore Malaysian colours got himself into trouble when he hugged gold medallist Starc and handed him the Australian flag.
Asked about his feelings competing without a coach: "I can stand on my own feet. I have competed without him (Stewart) before.
"I am not saying it is good... it is always better to have a coach during a tournament. However, I will do my best, even though Stewart won't be there."
Stewart returned form Australia on Sunday and will only be in Malaysia for a week to coach Nauraj and Lee Hup Wei.
"He will be teaching us on technical aspects of jumping, as it is difficult to learn via video recordings.
"His presence will help me get instant feedback, and it will make an impact on how I approach the jump," said Nauraj.