Strandja Memorial: Sachin, Sagar storm into quarters

Sofia (Bulgaria), February 6

Former world youth champion Sachin and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Sagar entered the quarterfinals on Day 3 of the 75th Strandja Memorial here today.

Sachin (57kg) was up against Uzbekistan’s Fayzov Khudoynazar in the pre-quarters and both the boxers came out with an attacking intent, but it was Fayzov who took a slight advantage in the first round. In the second round, Sachin initiated a comeback by using quick reflexes to dodge multiple attacks before landing some accurate jabs.

In the third round, he was at his attacking best, leaving his opponent clueless with his sharp punches, and grabbed a phenomenal 3-2 win.

Sagar (+92kg) faced Lithuania’s Jazeviciius Jonas in the pre-quarters. The Indian pugilist looked completely in control of the game from the get-go as he put up a scintillating attacking display, making his way into the quarterfinals with a 5-0 unanimous decision win.

Late on Monday, Arundhati Choudhary (66kg) made her way into the quarterfinals with a 4-1 win over France’s Sonvico Emilie.