Chennai, Sep 6: Swimming champ, MB Balakrishnan was assaulted by two unidentified persons near his residence on Sunday, Sep 5 morning.

The 21-year-old Commonwealth Games 2010 prospect, who was beaten up with cricket stumps by the duo, has sustained head, hands and leg and may miss the soon approaching Delhi games.

Balakrishnan of Chennai was on his way for routine practice when he was assaulted. When the auto drivers and locals saw what was taking place and rushed to the champ's rescue, the attackers fled the scene.

Police has began investigating into the incident.

The swimming ace is currently recovering in a private hospital in Arumbakkam and may need at least two weeks of rest.

The backstroke expert recently broke national records at the senior national meet in Jaipur. He is a SAF record-holder in 50 mt backstroke.

The potential medal-winner for India, however, may not be in a great shape to give the Delhi Commonwealth Games his best due to the injuries he has sustained in the assault.

"The chances of his winning the gold in Delhi looks quite remote. There are only few more days to go for the Games, and this is the time when we should begin intensive training. But now his return to pool depends on his doctor's advice. I was so sure of a Commonwealth medal; but to be realistic, not anymore," said his coach T Chandrasekar.

This news comes as a huge disappointment especially after three Indian swimmers earlier failed dope test.

OneIndia News