New Delhi, May 14: Two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen has been eliminated from the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Asian Games scheduled for later this year in Japan.
Zareen was attempting to secure her spot in both major events through qualifying trials held in Patiala but faced disappointment. During the national trials at the National Institute of Sports, she lost in the women’s 51 kg semifinals to Sakshi Chaudhary. Nikhat was defeated 1-4 in her semifinal match, shattering her hopes of direct entry into the Asian Games.
This outcome is a significant setback for the 29-year-old athlete, who has been struggling with poor form and has not been part of the Indian team in recent months. As a result of this loss, the boxer from Telangana will not be included in the Indian teams for upcoming international events.
Neetu Ghanghas also faced elimination after losing to young boxer Meenakshi, meaning a new athlete will represent the country in the 51 kg weight category.
Two years ago, Nikhat was in exceptional form, winning her second World Championship gold medal at an event in New Delhi in 2023. She defeated Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Tam by a unanimous decision of 5-0 in the 48-50 kg weight category.
Nikhat was compelled to participate in the trials after failing to secure direct entry during the Asian Championship held last month in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. She reached the semifinals of this continental meet but lost 0-5 to China’s Wu Yu. Only those athletes who reached the finals in Mongolia received automatic qualification for the Asian Games.
Nikhat Zareen has won two World Championships and holds a gold medal from the Commonwealth Games, along with a bronze medal from the Asian Games.
Leave a Comment