Asian Games 2023: Lovlina Borgohain through to final, assured Paris Olympics quota

Published at :October 3, 2023 at 2:07 PM

Modified at :January 25, 2024 at 3:45 AM

(Courtesy : Screenshot/Sonyliv)

Lovlina will be taking part in her second successive Olympic Games.

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain, emerged victorious in the semifinal bout of the women’s 75kg boxing category at the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023 and in the process secured a quota for Paris Olympics 2024..

The pugilist from Assam initiated the bout, capitalizing on her superior height in opposition to Thailand’s Baison Maneekon. As the first round drew to a close, her intensity grew, resulting in a flurry of powerful attacks that led the judges to give a 5-0 lead to the Indian.

In the subsequent round, the Thai pugilist gained advantage by achieving parity. Going further, in the third round, Lovlina appeared to be under some duress. Nonetheless, she remained composed and delivered a decisive blow just before the final bell. Ultimately, the judges rendered a verdict in favor of the Indian, assuring not only a silver medal for her country but also securing her spot in the Paris Olympics 2024.

Earlier to this match, countrymate Preeti lost her bout to China’s Yuan Chang in the women’s 54kg. From the onset of the match, Preeti appeared to be facing challenges in gaining an advantage over her opponent. Consequently, the first round concluded with a split decision of 4-1 in favor of Chang.

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During the second round, Preeti discovered her strategic positioning as she maintained a defensive stance while delivering a series of controlled punches. A solid straight jab successfully connected with Chang’s face, prompted the Chinese boxer to initiate a counterattack. The panel of three judges unanimously scored this particular exchange in favor of Preeti.

In the initial stages of the third round, Preeti maintained a semblance of control in the match. She displayed aggression and attempted to land several punches. However, the Chinese boxer ultimately emerged victorious with a score of 5-0, securing her place in the finals.

Although Preeti lost the semifinal, she will still be bestowed with a bronze medal and by the virtue of entering the semifinals she has already secured a spot for the Olympics.

With this four Indian boxers, Nikhat Zareen, Preeti Pawar, Parveen Hooda, and Lovlina Borgohain, have successfully qualified for the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024. Furthermore two men boxers will be in fray later today for a place in the final.