Lovlina Borgohain, Jaismine, Shiva and Hussamuddin set for boxing at National Games

Lovlina Borgohain last-minute entry in the 36th National Games will spice up competition in the boxing ring at the Mahatma Mandir here from Wednesday.

Lovlina, who suffered a minor injury on her nose during the selection trials for the Asian Championships, had earlier indicated that she would not be able to compete in the Games.

A poor outing at the World Championships earlier this year, followed by a pre-quarterfinal exit from the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, did not do justice to the lanky Assamese boxer’s potential.

Thus, the National Games could provide the two-time World Championship 69kg bronze medallist a perfect platform to assess herself ahead of the continental meet, starting on October 30 in Amman, Jordan.

Boxing Federation of India Secretary-General Hemanta Kumar Kalita said the Federation had requested the organising committee to allow the change of entry. “Initially the doctors advised Lovlina rest for three weeks, but she wanted to take part inthe National Games. She was given a nose cap, too.

boxing coach Bhaskar Bhatt powerhouse Haryana will dominate the women’s division, but Assam, who have fielded some good boxers, and Rajasthan, will also shine in the tournament.

Meanwhile, nine of the 13 boxers participating at the Asian Championships, including World Championship bronze medallist Shiva Thapa (67kg, Assam) and two-time Commonwealth Games medallist Mohammed Hussamuddin (57kg, Services), will lead the roster in the men’s events at the National Games.

Besides the 57kg division, several Services boxers are expected to dominate the competition in their weight categories, with Sumit Kundu (75kg), Sachin Kumar (80kg), Sanjeet (92kg), Narender (+92kg) confirming their participation.