Boxing: India win two bouts

Home favourite Negisetty Usha pulled off a surprise by outpunching world bronze medallist and Pan-American champion Sandra Bizier in their first round bout of 57 kg class at the World Women's Boxing Championships on Sunday. Kalpana Chowdhry, the world bronze medallist in 50 kg, gave the home team its first taste of success in the championships by winning her 48kg bout earlier in the day at the Talkatora Indoor Stadium. However, disappointment was in store in 60 kg for the hosts as Ibomcha Devi lost her bout to Lucie Bertaud of France 13-23. Usha appeared to be in attacking mood from the word go, countering every punch of her Canadian opponent to end the first round at 5-5. The Kerala pugilist, making her maiden appearance in the prestigious tournament, put up a much improved performance as compared to the last few months when she struggled even in the invitational competitions. She mostly scored on her straight punches to lead 12-8 at the end of second round and despite Bizier's attempts to increase her tally, Usha carried on with the consistent show to romp home 20-14. "I am really spellbound. I was really encouraged by the crowd support and the presence of my parents. It's really a matter of pride for me to win on the home soil where everyone knows me," said Usha, who advanced to the second round.

Source : India Times