Indian boxing had another strong outing at the Asian Games 2026 on Wednesday as Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain booked her place in the women's 75kg final, while Priya Ghanghas and Kapil Pokhariya secured bronze medals after losing their respective semifinal bouts.
Lovlina, who won silver at the previous edition of the Asian Games, produced a closely fought performance against Kazakhstan's Natalya Bogdanova in the 75kg semifinal. The Indian boxer eventually prevailed 3-2 on a split decision. Bogdanova is the reigning world champion in the 70kg category, making Lovlina's victory an important achievement.
With the win, Lovlina became the first Indian woman boxer to reach consecutive Asian Games finals. She is now assured of at least a silver medal and will have a chance to add another Asian Games gold to her record.
The day also brought medal success for two Indian debutants.
Priya Ghanghas, competing in the 60kg category, fought China's Yang Chengyu in the semifinal. The 20-year-old Indian put up a determined fight but could not overcome her more experienced opponent. Yang won the bout 4-1, bringing Priya's campaign to an end with a bronze medal.
In the men's 90kg category, Kapil Pokhariya also secured bronze after suffering a 1-4 defeat against Uzbekistan's reigning world champion Turabek Khabibullaev. Despite the loss, Kapil's performance marked a positive start to his Asian Games journey.
India's boxing contingent has now improved significantly on its performance from the previous Asian Games. The country had won one silver and three bronze medals in the last edition. This time, Indian boxers have already guaranteed a six-medal haul.
Lovlina is not the only Indian boxer still chasing gold. Parveen Hooda in the 65kg category and Ankush Panghal in the 80kg category are also through to the finals and will compete for gold on Friday.
Meanwhile, super-heavyweight boxer Narender Berwal also finished with a bronze medal, joining Priya and Kapil among India's bronze medallists.
With multiple finalists still in contention, India's boxing campaign at the Asian Games remains a significant part of the country's medal challenge. Lovlina's return to the final has also given the Indian contingent another opportunity to fight for gold on the biggest stage in Asian boxing.
Reader Comments 0