India off to winning start at Asian C'ships

Commonwealth Games gold-medallist Manoj Kumar (64kg) gave India a perfect start at the Asian Boxing Championships in Amman, Jordan by thrashing local favourite Ibrahim Saleh in the opening round.

The 26-year-old Indian, a silver medallist at the recent Limassol Boxing Cup in Cyprus, Lac Mohamed Dilshan of Sri Lanka on Wednesday in his pre-quarterfinal bout.

In the first round, Manoj surprised the short but strong local lad with his aggressive intent and pace.

Making full use of his height, the Indian dominated the proceedings through the bout, never allowing Saleh to play his natural game.

By the end of the final round, Manoj had the clear advantage with fatigue setting in on the Jordanian boxer.

Manoj entered the round of 16 with victory by virtue of a unanimous decision.

Jagroop Singh (81kg) will make his debut at the Asian Championships against Uzbekistan's Boburbek Yuldashev, later in the day.

Reigning national champion in the light weight division Vikas Malik (60kg) will lock horns with Nooristani Khaibar from Afghanistan.

Being held at the Sport City Boxing Arena, the event will feature the approved AIBA Scoring System the '10-point Must System'.

According to the official entry list, including the athletes, coaches, referees and team officials, 167 boxers from 27 nations are competing in the event.

Image: Manoj Kumar

Photograph: IBF Media