In an unexpected move questioning the finality of India’s Asian Games boxing selections, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) conducted fresh selection bouts at NIS Patiala. Weeks after the initial squad for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games had been announced, the federation reopened three weight divisions, resulting in original 70kg pick Sumit Kundu losing his spot to reserve boxer Deepak Punia.
Key Points & Trial Outcomes
- Reopening Finalized Categories:
- The BFI had initially finalized a unified squad for both the Glasgow Commonwealth Games (CWG) and the Asian Games during trials held in mid-May.
- However, following recommendations from the high-performance unit, support staff, and selection committee, one-off bouts were arranged across three categories—men’s 70kg, men’s 90kg, and women’s 65kg—pitting original picks against their designated reserves.
- Sumit Kundu Relegated in 70kg Division:
- The major upset occurred in the men’s 70kg division, where Sumit Kundu was defeated by reserve boxer Deepak Punia.
- According to official trial minutes, the winner was designated Rank 1 to represent India at the Games, while the runner-up was relegated to reserve status.
- Status Quo in 90kg and Women’s 65kg:
- The other two originally selected boxers successfully defended their berths:
- Kapil Pokhariya defeated reserve Harsh Choudhary in the men’s 90kg bout.
- Parveen Hooda secured her place by beating Saneh in the women’s 65kg category.
- The other two originally selected boxers successfully defended their berths:
- Reason Behind the Re-Trials:
- BFI sources noted the fresh evaluations were prompted after all three boxers failed to medal at the Glasgow CWG (Sumit bowed out in the pre-quarterfinals, while Kapil and Parveen exited in the quarterfinals).
- The federation initiated the re-trials to maximize medal prospects for the upcoming Asian Games.
- Caveat on Ministry Approval & Future Plans:
- The trial minutes included a specific clause: If the Sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) do not accept the late revisions, the boxers who represented India at the CWG in these categories would retain their Asian Games entries.
- Meanwhile, Sumit Kundu is managing an injury and considering moving up to the 80kg division ahead of the upcoming Olympic qualification cycle to avoid severe weight cuts.