Nikhat Zareen Faces Disappointment in Selection Trials
Patiala: Two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen experienced a disappointing exit from the boxing selection trials for the upcoming Commonwealth Games (CWG) and Asian Games. Following her semifinal loss, she expressed the significant physical and mental strain she endured during the chaotic buildup, labeling the experience as “torturous” for boxers.
Competing in the women’s 51kg category at the NS NIS Centre, Nikhat was defeated 1-4 by Haryana’s Sakshi Chaudhary, who switched from the 54 kg division to aim for qualification. This loss eliminated her chances of representing India in two major sporting events this year.
Unexpectedly, the defeat came as Nikhat was considered one of India’s top medal prospects. The contest left a visible bruise beneath her left eye, reflecting both the intense nature of the match and the preceding weeks of rigorous preparation.
Despite her disappointment, Nikhat maintained a composed demeanor. “I believe everything happens for a reason. Now I can return home and work on my mistakes,” she shared after the match. She acknowledged feeling mentally and physically drained due to constant travel for tournaments since January 2025.
Nikhat revealed that the relentless schedule left her little room for recovery. She aims to focus on improving her fitness and strength before setting her sights on the Los Angeles Olympics. “I’ll prepare for the Nationals as soon as the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) announces them. I’m determined to make a comeback,” she stated, prioritizing the world qualifiers for the Olympics next year.
Frustration also stemmed from what she characterized as administrative conflicts between the BFI and the Sports Authority of India (SAI), which disrupted athletes’ training. “The administrative disputes affected us as athletes. We felt the repercussions deeply,” she remarked, emphasizing the stressful atmosphere leading into the trials.
Nikhat discussed the extreme measures taken for weight loss, revealing her strict diet and intensive training regimen. Reflecting on her semifinal defeat, she praised Sakshi for her tactical performance. “Sakshi effectively used her reach and punches. I accept my defeat gracefully. It simply wasn’t my day,” she concluded.
Women’s team head coach Santiago Nieva expressed confidence in Nikhat’s ability to recover despite missing out on the CWG and Asian Games. “While this opportunity has closed, her focus should remain on the Olympics. With her experience, she can rebound strongly,” he noted. Other notable exits from the trials included Nitu Ghanghas, Pooja Rani, and Hitesh Gulia, who also fell short in their respective categories.
