Nikhat Zarin (Image credit: AIBA)
Patiala: Nakht Zareen has turned down an offer from national federation BFI to compete in the women’s 48kg category at next month’s senior world cup in China, choosing instead to focus on her long-term ambitions in the 51kg division ahead of the Olympic qualification cycle and next year’s world championships.“It is already difficult for him to make 51 kg as he usually weighs between 54-55 kg. Dropping to 48 kg could adversely affect his body, diet and performance,” said a source.It is learned that Nikhat’s decision forced the federation to hold a one-sided selection trial between former world champion Neetu Ghanghas and up-and-coming boxer Jyoti Galia for the 48kg berth. The match is expected to be held at NSNIS Patiala on Monday or Tuesday, though the BFI has not officially announced the decision. The development came after the BFI selection committee met on Friday evening after the conclusion of the three-day trials here to select India’s squad for the upcoming CWG and Asian Games. TOI published the final list of selected boxers in its Saturday edition.The women’s 51kg category proved to be the most competitive division. Former two-time world champion Nikhat entered the trials as favourite. However, she was stunned by Army’s Sakshi Chaudhary, who dropped from 54kg to 51kg.Reigning world champion Meenakshi Hooda, who competes in the 48kg category, also moved on as her preferred weight class is not on the CWG and Asiad roster. He was defeated by Sakshi in the final.
