Wednesday’s boxing showdown at the Asian Games presented a spectrum of results for India, culminating in mixed emotions. While two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen brilliantly secured her berth in the 50kg quarterfinals, celebrated boxers Shiva Thapa and Sanjeet faced early exits.
Zareen, whose reputation precedes her in the boxing circuit, didn't disappoint her supporters. Her bout against South Korea's Chorong Bak was a masterclass in tactical combat. Initiating her fight, Zareen meticulously observed Bak's strategy, preparing to counter. As the match progressed, her dominance became evident. Unleashing a barrage of punches, Zareen's advantage was her extended reach, which she used to perfection. Bak, although swift on her feet and trying her best to dodge and evade, found it challenging to counter Zareen's prowess. By the end of the second round, Zareen had firmly established her lead, and in subsequent rounds, she elegantly sidestepped Bak’s desperate attempts to regain ground. The 5-0 score in favor of Zareen was a testament to her stellar performance and her standing in the tournament.
On the flip side, the day brought unexpected outcomes for two of India's renowned boxers. Thapa, a six-time Asian Championship medalist and one of the country's seasoned pugilists, had the weight of expectations upon him. Entering the ring against Kyrgyzstan's Askat Kultaev in the 63.5kg pre-quarterfinals, many expected a thrilling contest. However, Kultaev, with his aggressive and relentless approach, took Thapa by surprise. The Kyrgyzstani boxer's onslaught, right from the start, pushed Thapa on the back foot. Despite Thapa's best efforts to land his signature powerful hooks, Kultaev's strategy and consistent punches put the Indian boxer on the defensive, leading to a disheartening 5-0 defeat for Thapa.
Adding to India's woes was Sanjeet’s bout in the 92kg category against Lazizbek Mullojonov, a formidable opponent and a world championship bronze medalist. Sanjeet, usually aggressive in his approach, was rendered largely defensive, struggling to find an answer to Mullojonov's powerful jabs and combinations. The defining moment came when a fierce punch from Mullojonov threw Sanjeet off balance, leading to an eight count.
These bouts, although producing varying results, underline the unpredictable and riveting nature of sports. As the Asian Games proceed, hopes remain high for the remaining Indian contenders aiming for the coveted podium finishes.
(Powered by AI, inputs from PTI)
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