Two-time World Champion and Commonwealth gold medalist Nikhat Zareen suffered a shock exit from the boxing trials for the upcoming Commonwealth Games (CWG) and Asian Games. Nikhat was one of India’s biggest medal prospects at two of the biggest sporting events, but she lost 1-4 to Haryana’s Sakshi Chaudhary, representing Services in the 51-kg category semifinal. Following the defeat, Nikhat lashed out at the chaotic two-week build-up to the trials.
For the unversed, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) were at loggerheads over the selection process. SAI had objected to the BFI’s assessment-based selection model after complaints from several boxers, and eventually suspended the assessment camp for selecting squads for CWG and Asian Games. The decision left BFI with no option but to revert to the traditional trial-based system.
Speaking to PTI after the defeat, Nikhat said that the uncertainty over the selection process left the boxers in a very difficult position.
Related News |
WFI Bars Vinesh Phogat From Competition Till June
‘Are We Some Poor Country In Africa?’: Explosive Claims Surface Against BFI Leadership | EXCLUSIVE
“The last two weeks were like torture for us boxers. I don’t want to blame any one person or body. But the athletes got crushed between the issue between those two (SAI and BFI),” Nikhat said.
“We were told the camp would start from April 25, but then the sanction didn’t come. Then they said once the camp starts on April 29, the assessment system will also start,” she explained.
Nikhat added that the boxers were warned against missing the trials due to injuries, as it would lead to points deduction, adding they were asked to stay within the weight during the camp.
Related News |
SAI Suspends Boxing Trials; CWG, Asian Games Selection Into Chaos
“First five per cent bodyweight, then four, then two and then one. They kept taking weight till May 10,” she said.
Nikhat added that the athletes spent weeks preparing for the assessment camp, but it was scrapped at the last moment, leaving the athletes frustrated.
“We had physical tests, beep tests, strength tests, and everyone gave their best. In the end, we were told that whatever tests we took, the points given won’t be counted,” she said.
“I’m Mentally And Physically Drained” – Nikhat Zareen
Nikhat said she is mentally and physically drained and would take a small break to prepare for the Olympic qualifiers.
“I am mentally and physically drained. Since January 2025, I haven’t had a break. Now I want to take a break and prepare for future tournaments,” Nikhat said.
“But I’m looking at the bigger picture, which is the World Olympic qualifiers,” she concluded.
