New Delhi, May 22 -- The Delhi High Court on Friday criticised the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for declaring celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat "ineligible" to compete in domestic events and directed the Centre to set up an expert panel to assess her case.

"Ask the experts to evaluate her chances.. Ensure that she participates," the court orally said.

A bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia observed that the federation's departure from its earlier practice of allowing reputed athletes to compete "speaks volumes". The court also asked the Centre to ensure that Phogat, who is attempting a comeback after maternity leave, is permitted to participate in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials.

The benc...