Boxing India (BI) has made it mandatory for all boxers, regardless of their stature, to participate in the National championship if they want to represent India in future international tournaments.
Speaking to The Hindu on the sidelines of the ongoing National women’s championship, secretary-general Jay Kowli said henceforth BI would adhere to this rule strictly. “It is not a new regulation but it has never been followed stringently in the past,” he said.
When told India’s representatives at the Incheon Asian Games — M.C. Mary Kom, Laishram Sarita Devi and Pooja — skipped this meet, Kowli said the three had been given “special permission to rest” after a successful campaign.
He, however, asserted the trio would have to pass a rigorous fitness test to be considered for the world championship squad. The Indian women’s team would be picked on the basis of the performance here. — Special Correspondent
