Amit Panghal and Jaismine Lamboria: India’s Boxing Hopes Dashed in Paris 2024

India’s boxing contingent at the Paris 2024 Olympics suffered a significant setback as two of its promising athletes, Amit Panghal and Jaismine Lamboria, were eliminated from the competition in the pre-quarterfinals. The unexpected defeats have cast a shadow over India’s medal hopes in the sport.  

Amit Panghal’s Shocking Loss

Amit Panghal, a seasoned boxer with high expectations, faced a shocking defeat against Zambia’s Patrick Chinyemba in the 51kg category. Despite having previously defeated Chinyemba at the Commonwealth Games in 2022, Panghal was unable to replicate his performance on the Olympic stage. The 1-4 split verdict in favor of Chinyemba came as a surprise to many, given Panghal’s experience and reputation.  

This loss marks a recurring disappointment for Panghal, as he had also exited the Tokyo Olympics at the same stage. The boxer’s inability to progress beyond the pre-quarterfinals has raised questions about his performance and preparation for major tournaments.  

Jaismine Lamboria’s Tough Debut

Making her Olympic debut, Jaismine Lamboria faced a formidable opponent in the form of Tokyo silver medalist Nesthy Petecio of the Philippines. The 22-year-old Indian boxer struggled to match the pace and experience of her opponent, ultimately losing the bout by a unanimous 0-5 verdict.  

Lamboria’s exit from the competition highlights the challenges faced by young and inexperienced athletes on the Olympic stage. Despite her potential, she was unable to overcome the pressure and skill of her more seasoned rival.

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Impact on Indian Boxing

The early exits of Amit Panghal and Jaismine Lamboria have undoubtedly dampened the spirits of the Indian boxing team and their fans. The duo was seen as potential medal contenders, and their losses have significantly reduced India’s chances of clinching a boxing medal at the Paris Olympics.

This setback will undoubtedly prompt a thorough review of the Indian boxing program, with a focus on identifying the areas where improvements can be made. The boxing federation will need to analyze the reasons behind these defeats and implement strategies to enhance the performance of Indian boxers at future international competitions.

Conclusion

The premature exits of Amit Panghal and Jaismine Lamboria from the Paris 2024 Olympics are a significant blow to Indian boxing. While the sport has shown promise in recent years, these defeats highlight the challenges that lie ahead. It is crucial for Indian boxing to learn from these setbacks and work towards building a stronger and more competitive team for future Olympic campaigns.

DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.