Shiva, Sangwan wins gold at Asian Qualifiers

Teenage boxers Shiva Thapa and Sumit Sangwan strikes on their gold in ongoing Asian Olympic qualifying even held as Astana. It is another major success for both the boxers as yesterday both have assured their ticket for the London Olympic.

Sangwan played out a brilliant bout with a good combination of offence and defence.

The youngest boxer Shiva defeated 2010 Asian Games bronze medallist Wessam Salamana of Syria in 56 kg wt. Shiva was in full confidence after getting the Olympic qualifying ticket and it helped him in his ring.

Shiva had a three-point advantage (10:7) going into the final round, which prompted Salamana to go all out. But the Indian was up to the challenge -- he was firm with his defence and accurate with his counter attacks.

In another event Sumit overpowered Jakhon Qurbanov of Tajikistan who has won bronze medal in the Guangzhou Games.

Coach G.S. Sandhu was pleased with the performance of his young wards.

He said with triumph that Shiva and Sumit have shown great maturity for their age; the way they read their opponents and adapt is extra ordinary. Both the lads are very good with their timing and counter attacks. They are great future prospects for India.

(With inputs from IANS)