Indian Pugilists Secure Double Medal Guarantee at Commonwealth Games
Preeti Pawar and Priya Ghanghas have guaranteed at least two bronze medals for India after dominant quarterfinal performances. While Pawar and Ghanghas advanced, teammate Parveen Hooda exited the competition following a narrow split-decision loss.
Bhiwani's Pawar Dominates Scottish Ring
Preeti Pawar, a 22-year-old pugilist from Haryana's boxing hub of Bhiwani, secured a spot in the semifinals at the Scottish Event Campus on Tuesday. Competing in the 54kg division, Pawar delivered a masterclass in tactical aggression to defeat Nicole Clyde of Northern Ireland. The victory ensures the Indian contingent will walk away with at least a bronze medal from this weight class.
Pawar’s victory was built on a foundation of superior movement and technical precision. The opening round saw her utilize back-and-forth footwork to maintain distance while landing crisp jabs. Four judges rewarded her efforts with 10-9 scores, while a fifth gave her a dominant 10-8 lead. She maintained this momentum through the second and third rounds, blending uppercuts with a high-efficiency defense that neutralized Clyde's attempts to close the range.
Reflecting on her performance, Pawar credited a pre-tournament training camp in Belfast for her success. "I gave my 100% today and will give my 100% in the next bout as well," Pawar stated, noting that sparring with Clyde prior to the Games provided a strategic advantage.
Mixed Results in Higher Weight Classes
The success continued in the 60kg category as Priya Ghanghas joined Pawar in the medal rounds. Ghanghas overcame Scotland’s Niamh Mitchell in a 4-1 points decision, displaying grit against the local favorite to secure India's second confirmed boxing medal of the day.
However, the day concluded with a setback in the 65kg division. Parveen Hooda faced England’s Sacha Hickey in a closely contested quarterfinal that divided the officiating panel. Hooda ultimately lost the bout via a 2-3 split verdict, ending her pursuit of the podium.
Key Match Outcomes
- Women's 54kg: Preeti Pawar (IND) def. Nicole Clyde (NIR) via 5-0 Unanimous Decision.
- Women's 60kg: Priya Ghanghas (IND) def. Niamh Mitchell (SCO) via 4-1 Points Decision.
- Women's 65kg: Sacha Hickey (ENG) def. Parveen Hooda (IND) via 3-2 Split Decision.
Source: The Hindu — Sport
