Astana (Kazakhstan): Indian boxers Minakshi (48kg) and Pooja Rani (80kg) ensured two medals for the country by advancing to the semifinals of their respective categories on Day 3 of the World Boxing Cup in Astana on Wednesday.
Minakshi delivered a commanding performance in her quarterfinal bout, outclassing Guo Yi-Xuan of Chinese Taipei with a unanimous 5-0 decision.
Her sharp footwork and accurate punches proved too much for her opponent, earning her a well-deserved place in the semifinals.
Pooja Rani added to India’s medal tally with a hard-fought 4-1 split decision win over Kazakhstan’s Gulsaya Yerzhan.
Competing in the 80kg weight class, Pooja displayed grit and composure to edge past the local favourite and secure a podium finish.
Meanwhile, Anamika (51kg) also kept India’s campaign alive by advancing to the quarterfinals after a controlled performance against Turkey’s Aysen Taskin earlier in the day.
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In the men’s category, Jadumani Singh battled valiantly but lost a close contest to Jay Bryan Baricuatro of the Philippines, marking the end of his run at the event.
With two semi-finalists already confirmed and more athletes in the fray, India’s boxing contingent continues to build momentum at the Astana leg of the World Boxing Cup, with eyes on the final showdown in New Delhi later this year.
