
Priya Stuns Scottish Favourite as Preeti, Jadumani Power India Into CWG Boxing Semifinals
India's boxing contingent continued its impressive march at the Commonwealth Games, with Priya Ghanghas, Preeti Pawar, and Jadumani Singh storming into the semifinals on Tuesday to guarantee at least three bronze medals for the country.
The standout performance came from reigning Asian champion Priya Ghanghas, who produced a spirited comeback to defeat Scotland's home favourite Niamh Mitchell in a gripping women's 60kg quarterfinal. Competing in front of a packed arena that passionately backed the local boxer, Priya overcame an opening-round deficit to claim a memorable 4-1 split-decision victory.
After narrowly losing the first round on the judges' scorecards, the Haryana boxer responded with remarkable composure and aggression. She relentlessly pushed forward, landing cleaner combinations while forcing Mitchell onto the defensive. Despite both boxers receiving point deductions during the bout, Priya maintained her momentum and dominated the closing stages to seal one of India's most significant wins of the tournament.
Reflecting on her victory, Priya summed up the moment with a smile, saying there was no better feeling than defeating a Scottish boxer in Scotland.
Earlier in the day, Asian Games bronze medallist Preeti Pawar delivered one of the most dominant performances of the competition. The 54kg boxer completely outclassed Nicole Clyde of Northern Ireland, earning a 5-0 unanimous decision.
Having trained alongside Clyde during India's preparatory camp in Belfast, Preeti appeared familiar with her opponent's style and controlled the contest from the opening bell. Her speed, precise punching and sharp footwork left Clyde struggling to find answers as the Indian swept all three rounds to book her place in the semifinals. The victory also secured the first Commonwealth Games medal of Preeti's career, with Zambia's Catherine Mwape awaiting her in the last four.
India's medal rush continued when Jadumani Singh produced a polished display against Mwengo Mwale of Zambia in the men's 55kg quarterfinal. The Manipuri boxer controlled the pace throughout the contest with disciplined defence, accurate counter-punching and intelligent movement, cruising to another 5-0 unanimous verdict.
However, it was not a perfect day for India, as Parveen Hooda bowed out after a closely fought 2-3 split-decision defeat against England's Sacha Hickey.
With three more medals already secured and the semifinals still to come, India's boxing campaign continues to gather momentum in Glasgow, raising hopes of converting guaranteed podium finishes into golden moments.
