BFI Stirs Controversy with Last-Minute Selection Trials for Asian Games

New Delhi: In an unexpected development that has cast a shadow of uncertainty over India’s boxing squad for the upcoming Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) conducted fresh selection trials on August 17 at NIS Patiala. The move comes just weeks after the federation had already finalized and announced its representatives for the Games.

The surprise trials involved three specific weight categories—men’s 70kg, men’s 90kg, and women’s 65kg—pitting the originally selected athletes against their respective reserves. This decision represents a significant departure from the BFI’s stance following the initial selection process held from May 13-15, where it was widely understood that the squad for both the Glasgow Commonwealth Games (CWG) and the Asian Games was locked in.

A High-Stakes Shake-up

The most notable casualty of the latest trials was Sumit Kundu. Kundu, who had been the designated representative for the 70kg category, faced his reserve, Deepak Punia, in a bout that saw the established starter lose his spot. Consequently, Punia has been elevated to the Asian Games berth, while Kundu has been relegated to a reserve role.

In the other two categories, the original selections held their ground. Kapil Pokhariya successfully defended his 90kg spot against challenger Harsh Choudhary, while Parveen Hooda emerged victorious over Saneh in the women’s 65kg bout.

Addressing Performance Concerns

According to BFI sources, the decision to reopen the selection process was prompted by a desire to optimize India’s medal prospects. The three boxers in question failed to secure podium finishes at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, with Kundu exiting in the pre-quarterfinals and both Pokhariya and Hooda bowing out in the quarterfinals. Federation officials maintained that sending the best-performing athletes is paramount to the country’s success in Aichi-Nagoya.

Procedural Ambiguity

While the minutes of the August 17 trials explicitly state that the winners would represent India at the Asian Games, the BFI has included a crucial caveat. The document notes that if the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) or the sports ministry refuses to accept the revised entries, the original boxers who competed at the Commonwealth Games will retain their spots for the Asian Games.

As for Sumit Kundu, reports suggest he is currently managing an injury and may prioritize recovery over the upcoming pre-Games training camp. Looking ahead, the boxer is reportedly contemplating a move to the 80kg category, aiming to avoid the physical strain of repeated weight cuts as he shifts his focus toward next year’s Olympic qualification cycle.

For now, the status of the final squad remains in limbo, pending approval from governing sports bodies.