The girls playing sub-junior nationals can emulate Mary Kom by 2024-28, says Gopal Devang
Chairman of Boxing selection committee Gopal Devang feels that the women boxers, who are participating in the sub-junior nationals will be able to match Mary Kom by 2024-28. Expecting six medals in men's and women's category, Devang was not satisfied with the performance given by Indian boxers.
According to Devang, the girls playing the sub-junior nationals would be the future prospects of boxing in India. However, he was sincere in stating that as per now, it would be difficult to find another Mary Kom.
“In current situation it is difficult to make another Mary Kom. We have potential but it will take time. The girls playing the sub-junior nationals can emulate Mary Kom by 2024-28. They are future of India,” said Devang.
He further mentioned that the Indian boxers could not rise up to his expectations in the Asian Games 2018. However, the announcement of giving prize money to the boxers have made him happy. He is of the opinion that now more boxers, especially girls, would be drawn towards taking up this sport.
“I am not at all satisfied with India's performance. I was expecting six medals in men and women sections. I was sure of gold medals from Amit Panghal and Vikas Krishnan. Panghal got it but Vikas sadly missed it due to injury,” he said.
“It is good for boxing that mayor has declared cash award. Earlier, cash prizes did not exist. Now it will boost the players’ morale and draw more girls to take up this game,” Devang added.