Strandja Memorial: Nikhat, Amit reach final

Sofia (Bulgaria), February 10

Dominant efforts by two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Amit Panghal headlined the Indian boxers’ march into six finals at the 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament here today.

Nikhat started her bout cautiously against home girl Zlatislava Chukanova, taking some time to get into the rhythm but did not lose hold of the match as she won 5-0 in the 50kg category. It was an easy day at the office for Panghal in the men’s 51kg class as he won his third consecutive match with a unanimous 5-0 decision, this time against Turkey’s Gumus Samet.

Later, Arundhati Choudhary (66kg) made light work of Jessica Triebelova of Slovakia to secure a 5-0 win.

Barun Singh Shagolshem (48kg) continued India’s dominance with a 5-0 unanimous decision win over Khenoussi Kamel of Algeria.

Sachin (57kg) secured a 4-1 comeback win over Ukraine’s Abduraimov Aider, while Rajat (67kg) was handed a walkover.