PETALING JAYA, April 29 — Rugby star K. Dinesvaran has accused the National Sports Institute (NSI) of favouritism.

The national player claims NSI does not provide proper medical support to national rugby players as it does to athletes from more popular sports.

“It takes weeks for us to be treated, the fastest is a week,” said Dinesvaran.

“We also need to go through a long registration process. This does not happen to footballers. As such, we sometimes prefer to play through the pain barrier.”

Dinesvaran said NSI’s “delayed service” has forced a lot of talented ruggers to retire early.

“They want to develop rugby but all we see are many talented players leaving due to lack of attention.

“Just like football, rugby is a touch sport. Injuries need to be treated as early as possible to avoid serious long-term complications.”

The 27-year-old Penangite started his career with Cobra before moving to Japanese club Yamaha Jubilo in 2013. He is now back training with the national squad for the Asian Rugby Championships next month (May 10-16) at PJ Stadium.

“There’s a lot of difference playing at club level in Japan. We have a physiotherapist on call 24 hours a day and can get treatment whenever we need it,” said Dinesvaran.

“The treatment room is also accessible. All you have to do is book it an hour in advance.

“With similar support, Malaysian players can play much longer and the sport will thrive.”

NSI chief operating officer Datuk Dr Ramlan Aziz, however, refuted Dinesvaran’s allegations.

“All athletes are treated equally by NSI,” said Dr Ramlan.

“You don’t have to be Lee Chong Wei, Nicol David or Pandelela Rinong to get our support.

“It depends on the seriousness of the injury but we always address it as soon as we can.

“I was a former rugger during my high school days at Malay College Kuala Kangsar. I know the sport well and understand rugby injuries need immediate attention.

“I will check on this but also suggest the affected players come and see me. We will discuss and sort things together.”