WATCH: Controversy brews at Asian Games trials as Vinesh Phogat's husband Somveer Rathi clashes with referee

A major controversy unfolded during the ongoing Asian Games wrestling selection trials on Saturday as Vinesh Phogat's husband, Somveer Rathi, was involved in a heated exchange with referee during her quarterfinal bout against Nishu.

The incident occurred during a tense contest in the women's 53kg category, where Vinesh was fighting to keep her hopes alive of securing a place in India's squad for the Asian Games later this year.

The veteran wrestler eventually emerged victorious by a narrow 7-6 margin, but the match was overshadowed by the dramatic scenes that unfolded mat-side.

Somveer Rathi protests referee's decision during Vinesh Phogat's QF

Vinesh found herself under pressure early in the contest and trailed 0-5 at the end of the first period against Nishu. However, the experienced wrestler staged an impressive comeback in the second half and got herself back into the match with a crucial four-point move.

The turning point of the controversy came during this phase of the bout. Somveer Rathi appeared visibly unhappy with a refereeing decision and was seen arguing passionately with the officials. According to the protest, Rathi believed Nishu was in a danger position when the referees blew the whistle and stopped the action.

The disagreement quickly escalated into a heated exchange as emotions ran high during the closely contested encounter. Despite the drama, Vinesh Phogat maintained her composure and managed to edge past Nishu 7-6 to book her place in the semifinals.

The tension from the contest appeared to carry over even after the final whistle. Nishu reportedly declined to shake hands with Vinesh following the bout and also chose not to extend her hand to the referee before leaving the mat. With the victory, Vinesh advanced to the semifinals where she is set to face Meenakshi in another crucial clash.

Vinesh's Asian Games participation came after prolonged dispute

The latest controversy comes amid an already turbulent journey for Vinesh at the selection trials. The former world championships medallist had earlier found herself in disagreement with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) regarding her participation in the women's 53kg category.

Initially, she was informed that she would only be allowed to compete in the 50kg division because that had been her primary category during recent international events, including the Paris Olympics. Vinesh Phogat strongly opposed the move and insisted on competing in the 53kg category.

The matter eventually reached the courts, with the Delhi High Court directing the federation to treat her as an iconic athlete and allow her participation in the Asian Games selection process.

Following further discussions and intervention from WFI officials, Vinesh was eventually accommodated in the 53kg trials after completing the weigh-in requirements.