India are assured of at least two silver medals at the ongoing Women's World Boxing Championships as reigning champion Nikhat Zareen (50kg) and her teammate Nitu Ghanghas (48kg) stormed into the title clash in New Delhi on Thursday. 

COMMERCIAL BREAK
SCROLL TO CONTINUE READING

In their respective semi-final clashes, while Nikhat out-punched Rio Olympics bronze medallist Ingrit Valencia of Colombia 5-0, Nitu got the better of Alua Balkibekova of Kazakhstan 5-2.

Hyderabad girl Nikhat used her speed and tactical acumen to see off Valencia on her way to defend the title.

Earlier in the rematch of last year's quarterfinals, Nitu and Balkibekova went all guns blazing in the first round. However, the Kazakh was more dominant and took the round 2-3.

In the second round, Nitu came out strongly, landing hooks and jabs.

Both boxers resorted to body blows and clinching with Nitu ending on top.

The final three minutes were a tense affair with Nitu getting the better of Balkibekova, forcing a bout review.
(With inputs from PTI)