Indian Boxers Squad Changes for Second World Olympic Qualifier in Bangkok

Following the Indian boxers’ disappointing performance in the Olympic qualifying event in Busto Arsizio, Italy, where they could not win a single quota place, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has made significant changes to the squad for the upcoming World Olympic qualifier in Bangkok.

After a thorough assessment by coaches Dmitry Dmitruk, C.A. Kuttappa, and Dharmendra Yadav, former World championships silver medallist Amit Panghal has made a comeback in the 51kg category, replacing Worlds bronze medallist Deepak Bhoria. Another notable change is former World junior champion Sachin Siwach Jr. taking the place of Mohammad Hussamuddin in the 57kg category.

One of the surprises was the absence of seasoned boxer Shiva Thapa, with Abinash Jamwal emerging as the top boxer in the 63.5kg category. Young talent Abhimanyu Loura claimed the number one slot in the 80kg category.

Despite narrowly missing out on an Olympic quota place in Italy, Worlds bronze medallist Nishant Dev has retained his spot in the 71kg category, along with Sanjeet in the 92kg category and Narender Berwal in the +92kg category.

Among the women, Ankushita Boro has moved down to the 60kg category and claimed the number one position ahead of Jaismine Lamboria, while Arundhati Choudhary was the best in the 66kg category.

The focus for the selection committee was on the boxers’ ability to win matches in international events. The squad will travel to Bangkok on May 10 to train ahead of the competition.

With four women boxers already securing quota places in the Paris Olympics, the revamped squad will be looking to make a strong statement in Bangkok and secure their spots for the upcoming Games.