Indian boxers secure five medals and four Olympic Spots at Asian Games 2023

Indian boxers showcased their prowess at the Asian Games 2023, leaving an indelible mark with stellar performances and a medal haul that included Olympic quotas.

In a historic moment, Lovlina Borgohain, the reigning world champion and Olympic medallist, secured a silver medal in the women’s 75kg boxing event. However, her journey to the gold was halted by the local favourite, Li Qian, who emerged victorious by unanimous decision in the final.

The closely contested final saw Borgohain landing a strong right hand alongside a few jabs in the first round. Despite her efforts, a deduction of one point in the second round for excessive clinching shifted the momentum in Li Qian’s favour. The Chinese boxer adeptly evaded Borgohain's attacks while landing effective counterpunches, securing the gold.

This marks the first silver medal for an Indian woman at the Asian Games boxing tournament. The legendary Mary Kom had previously clinched the gold medal at Incheon 2014.

Borgohain had faced Li Qian earlier this year in the world championships semi-finals, where she emerged victorious by a 4:1 split decision. Her silver at the Asian Games also secured a Paris 2024 Olympic quota in the women’s 75kg category.

In another notable performance, Parveen Hooda, competing in the women's 57kg category, secured a bronze medal despite a 5:0 loss to Chinese Taipei’s Lin Yu Ting in the semi-finals. Hooda's impressive run also earned her a Paris 2024 Olympic quota.

In total, five Indian boxers - Lovlina Borgohain, Nikhat Zareen, Parveen Hooda, Narendra Berwal, and Preeti Pawar - claimed medals, comprising one silver and four bronze.

The exceptional showing in Hangzhou resulted in India securing four boxing quotas for the Paris 2024 Olympics – Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti Pawar (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg), and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg). The Indian boxing contingent has not only shone on the continental stage but has also paved the way for future global triumphs.

Medals in Boxing for India at the Asian Games 2023

• Lovlina Borgohain – Silver
• Nikhat Zareen – Bronze
• Parveen Hooda – Bronze
• Narendra Berwal – Bronze
• Preeti Pawar – Bronze

What are your thoughts on the performance? Let us know in the comments below.

LEAVE A COMMENT

Please login to leave a comment

0 Comments