Pinki Rani, her usual aggression missing, was a pale shadow of herself as she lost to Michaela Walsh of Northern Ireland in the semifinals of the women’s 48-51kg flyweight category on Friday.
The 24-year-old Haryana girl had to be satisfied with the bronze awarded to the losing semifinalists.
Pinki traded blows with her Northern Ireland opponent right through the close first round. In the second, Michaela displayed better technique and skill, and was quick off her feet too. Though Pinki lasted the distance, Michaela got better with each passing round and emerged winner on a split points decision.
Pinki later said: “Yes, I did make quite a few mistakes. Instead of my usual style, I was too defensive. She was a good fighter, but I don’t think I performed to my best.”
Sarita Devi in final Meanwhile, Sarita Devi showed what Manipuri grit is all about as she stormed into the women’s light (57-60kg) category semifinal on Friday.
The Indian put up an aggressive front right from the start and had little difficulty in earning a unanimous points decision over Maria Machongua of Mozambique in the semifinals. Throwing about a barrage of left and right combination, Sarita had her rival on the ropes time and again almost all through the bout lasting four rounds.
Devendro Singh, also followed his elder sister, into the final of men’s 49kg (fly) weight category, winning his semifinal against Ashley Williams (Wales) quite comfortably on points.
