CWG 2022: Boxer Amit Panghal off to controlled start, advances to quarter-finals
The 2018 silver medallist Amit Panghal is off to a solid start at the ongoing Commonwealth Games (CWG 2022) in Birmingham. Panghal, via a unanimous 5-0 verdict, outweighed Namri Berri of Vanuatu in the men's 51kg Round of 16 bout to storm into the quarter-finals on Monday (August 1).
Carrying India's expectations once again, after a disappointing men's team campaign at CWG 2022, Panghal played with swift movement, clever approach, and sharp observance. He found good rhythm in the first round itself.
With a combination of punches and smooth game management, the 26-year-old threw some timely and powerful blows to take control of Namri Berri in the second round.
Although he was not overtly aggressive, Panghal was sound and clear with his strategy while dancing around the ring before landing a precise left-arm cross punch followed by a few right hooks towards the end of the second round.
Throughout the bout, he put all his skills to work trying to tire Berri, an inexperienced opponent at NEC Hall 4.
The ace Indian boxer is an overwhelming medal favorite this time around. Panghal had bowed out of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics with a 1-4 loss to Rio Games silver-medalist Yuberjen Martinez. Beaten by the Colombian's relentless attack and pace in a draining pre-quarterfinal bout, Panghal will look to make amends this time in Birmingham.
It would be a sigh of relief for the 26-year-old to have gotten off to a controlled start at the mega event, after the Tokyo distress.
CWG 2022: Indian boxers' upcoming fixtures
Here is a list of boxers in action on Day 4 (August 1, 2022).
BOXING
Stay tuned for the updated Commonwealth Games 2022 medal table on Sportskeeda.
Where to watch India at the Commonwealth Games & Live Streaming details
Sony Sports Network has the broadcast rights for CWG 2022 in India. Sony TEN 1, Sony TEN 2, Sony TEN 3, Sony SIX, and Sony TEN 4 will live telecast the CWG 2022 in India.
Live streaming will also be available on the Sony LIV app and website.
Also read: "Hey Siri, can you define courage for me?"- Twitter hails Commonwealth Games 2022 weightlifting champion Jeremy Lalrinnunga