BFI chief assures boxers of all support

With several of the big names missing and others getting a direct entry into the knockout rounds, action on the opening day of the 8th Elite Women’s National Boxing Championships was more outside the ring than inside with BFI president Ajay Singh flanked by current and former champions and accompanied by IOA president PT Usha in a show of strength at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex here on Friday.

Singh, on his part reiterated his assurance that those who haven’t been able to participate, including Olympic medalist Lovlina Borgohain, due to internal friction will continue to have his support and insisted that those who are participating here will be taken care of both in terms of performances and future participation in camps and competitions.

“I thank those who have come and I am sure some of you will eventually represent India at the Olympics and World Championships. It is our responsibility and duty to ensure that you and your dreams are taken care of,” he declared.

With the likes of World Champions L. Sarita Devi, Nikhat Zareen, Olympic medalist Vijender Singh and CWG champion Manoj Kumar turning up, there was clearly more talent on the dais. In the ring, the only two notable entries scheduled to be in action — two-time World Youth Champion Sakshi in the 54kg and Olympian Jaismine Lamboria in the 57kg, both representing Services Sports Control Board – got a walkover while reigning champion Anamika Hooda of Railways began her title defence with a second round knockout win against Sikkim’s Prava Gajneer in the 50kg.