Welsh boxer Evans barred from Games

AFP/Glasgow

Olympic silver medallist Fred Evans has been denied the chance to compete in the Commonwealth Games after his accreditation was refused.

The Welsh welterweight has been told he will not be allowed to compete in Glasgow following checks by the Home Office Commonwealth Games officials.

Wales team chief Brian Davis said in a statement on Tuesday: “Team Wales can confirm that boxer Fred Evans has had his accreditation refused by Glasgow 2014 based on checks completed by the Home Office and the Commonwealth Games accreditation decision board.

“Sadly, he is therefore unable to compete at the Commonwealth Games.

“Fred is a world class boxer and has handled this difficult situation in a very disciplined manner, continuing to work hard in the hope of a satisfactory resolution.

“We thank him for his professionalism and wish him all the best for his future ambitions.”

It was not immediately clear why Evans had been barred from the Games, although in April he did admit being involved in a nightclub assault in Birmingham, central England, for which he was fined.

However, athletes with criminal records have been allowed to compete in past Commonwealth Games.