LAHORE: Pakistan suspended two female athletes who were expected to compete in the Commonwealth Games in India in October after they failed dope tests, an official said.

Sprinters Sadaf Siddiqui, who represented Pakistan in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and fast-rising Javeria Hasan failed dope tests conducted during trials for the Games last month and were suspended for two years.

They were due to take part in the 100 and 200 metres races at the Games.

“Both Sadaf and Javeria failed dope tests and are now suspended for two years,” Meesaq Rizvi, an official from Pakistan’s anti-doping organisation.

“They can appeal against the suspension within two weeks and if they are not cleared then the suspension will turn into a two-year ban,” he said.

Sadaf finished seventh in her heat at the 2008 Olympics.

Pakistani athletes lag way behind at international level and have never won any medal at the Olympic level. One male and female athlete represent Pakistan at the Olympics through wild cards.

Pakistan are expected to send a 75-member contingent to the October 3-14 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi who will likely take part in in athletics, swimming, field hockey, squash, tennis, weightlifting and wrestling.