Manju Rani rewrites history with a silver on World Championship debut

Manju Rani’s brilliant debut campaign in 48kg at Women’s World Boxing Championships culminated in a silver medal as Indian women pugilists finished with a rich haul of four medals that included one silver and three bronze in Ulan-Ude, Russia today. Rani gave her all before going down 1-4 to second seed Ekaterina Paltceva of Russia in summit clash.

Manju Rani's puts up a spectacular show at World Championship

19-year-old made a strong comeback in second round after a slow start with her flurry of punches landing on home favourite. Despite Indian continuing to put up a brave show even in third round, result ultimately did t go her way. Haryana girl was fantastic throughout tournament. Showing nerves in her maiden appearance at this elite tournament, she refused to be intimidated by bigger names of sport. Her spirit and zeal were evident in ample amounts when Strandja Cup silver medallist pulled off a stunning upset win over top seed Kim Hyang of rth Korea in quarter-finals. She took that confidence into semis and avenged her Thailand Open semi-final defeat to former World Championships bronze medallist Chuthamat Raksat of Thailand.

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Mary Kom wins silver in 51 kg

While Manju Rani was only Indian to reach final this year, India can draw a lot of positives from best-ever overseas show that women pugilists put up to equal last year’s haul of four medals. Mary Kom (51kg) got an unprecedented eighth medal from this prestigious tournament to add to her glittering resume that already has a staggering six gold medals and one silver. Manipuri legend became only boxer, male or female, to win eight medals from Amateur World Championships.
Assam girls, Lovlina Borgohain (69kg) and Jamuna Boro (54kg) also shone to add to India’s medal tally. While Borgohain repeated her feat of last year to take her second consecutive bronze medal, Boro picked a bronze in a smashing debut at World Championships.

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