In Boxing, Indian pugists have began their campaign with a bang on the opening day of the Elorda Cup 2024 in Astana, Kazakhstan today.

In the women’s 52 kg category, Reigning world champion Nikhat Zareen advanced to the next round, defeating Rakhymberdi Zhansaya of the host country, 5- Nil. While, Minakshi made her way into the next round with a 4-1 victory over Gassymova Roxana of Kazakhstan in the women’s 48 kg category. Another Indian, Anamika in the women’s 50 kg category bout defeated Zhumabayeva Arailym with a referee stop the contest (RSC) win.

Meanwhile, in the men’s 75 kg category, Ishmeet Singh faced a defeat against Kazakhstan’s Armanuly Armat, nil-5. Sonia in the women’s 54 kg category also bowed out with the same scoreline, after losing against Chang Yuan of China.

Six time Asian Championships medallist Shiva Thapa will be in action tomorrow, along with five other Indian boxers. This time, a 21-member squad will be representing India in the prestigious tournament.