Prarthana Hazarika
Glasgow: Olympic bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain has assured India of its first boxing medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games after progressing directly to the women’s 75kg semi-finals. While the draw has guaranteed the Assam boxer at least a bronze medal, the Indian camp is firmly focused on going all the way.
Speaking from Glasgow, Indian women’s team head coach Santiago Nieva said the draw has worked in India’s favour but stressed that Lovlina cannot afford to underestimate her next opponent.
“We got the draw. Lovlina’s weight category is 75kg and there are five boxers. She is through to the semi-finals and will face the boxer from Tuvalu. They have sparred together in Belfast,” Nieva said.
The coach believes Lovlina starts as the favourite but pointed out that her opponent possesses qualities that demand caution. “I am confident Lovlina is at a higher level, but her opponent is a tough one. She is a southpaw, so we have to be ready and perform our best,” he said.
Southpaw boxers often pose a different tactical challenge because of their stance and angles, making preparation crucial despite the previous sparring sessions between the two.
For Lovlina, Glasgow presents another opportunity to add a major title to an already impressive international career. The Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist has consistently delivered on the biggest stages and has remained one of India’s most dependable boxers over the past few years. Her move to the 75kg category has opened a fresh chapter in her career, and she now stands just one victory away from another Commonwealth Games final.
Although a medal is already assured under Commonwealth Games boxing rules, Nieva made it clear that India’s ambitions extend beyond reaching the podium. “It’s a good draw for us, and to get the gold we will have to beat everybody,” he said, underlining the team’s determination to finish at the top.
As the boxing competition gathers momentum in Glasgow, all eyes will be on the Assamese star when she steps into the ring for her semi-final. A victory would not only secure a place in the gold medal bout but also move Lovlina one step closer to adding the Commonwealth Games crown to her distinguished list of achievements.
For Indian boxing, the campaign has begun on a positive note, and the team will hope Lovlina’s assured medal marks the beginning of a successful run in Glasgow.
