How Did Hitesh and Sakshi Boost India's Medal Count at the World Boxing Cup?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Hitesh Gulia and Sakshi have guaranteed podium finishes at the World Boxing Cup.
- India's medal tally is expected to rise with more boxers still competing.
- The competition in Astana is a crucial build-up to the finals in New Delhi.
- Minakshi and Pooja Rani have also advanced to the semifinals.
- India previously secured six medals in Brazil.
Astana (Kazakhstan), July 3 (NationPress) Hitesh Gulia and Sakshi have advanced to the semifinals on Thursday, ensuring themselves podium finishes and contributing to India's growing medal tally at the second segment of the World Boxing Cup 2025 taking place in Kazakhstan's capital.
Hitesh, a gold medallist from the earlier leg in Brazil this year, achieved a decisive 5:0 victory over Kazakhstan’s Almaz Orozbekov in the men’s 70kg quarterfinal, adding yet another medal to his collection.
In the women’s 54kg division, Sakshi showcased her skill by defeating Brazil’s Tatiana Regina de Jesus Chagas with a unanimous decision.
They now join confirmed medallists Minakshi (48kg) and Pooja Rani (80kg), along with Sanju (60kg), who secured her spot on Wednesday after progressing to the semifinals. Anamika (51kg) also remains in the race after reaching the quarterfinals.
With numerous medals already assured and more boxers still competing, Team India’s journey in Astana is poised for a strong conclusion as they prepare for the World Boxing Cup Finals in New Delhi.
On Wednesday, Minakshi clinched her place in the semifinals with an impressive 5:0 victory over Chinese Taipei’s Guo Yi-Xuan, demonstrating excellent movement and scoring. Pooja Rani followed with a determined 4:1 split decision win over Kazakhstan’s Gulsaya Yerzhan in the 80kg category, securing her spot in the final four and guaranteeing her a podium finish.
Anamika (51kg) advanced to the quarterfinals with a steady performance against Turkey’s Aysen Taskin, maintaining India’s momentum.
In the men’s draw, Jadumani Singh fought valiantly in a closely contested match but narrowly lost to the Philippines’ Jay Bryan Baricuatro, concluding his campaign.
India secured six medals in the previous leg of the World Boxing Cup held in Brazil. With the Finals scheduled for November in New Delhi, the Astana leg is crucial for shaping preparations. India had previously earned one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals at the first leg of the 2025 World Boxing Cup in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil.
Uzbekistan topped the medal tally in Brazil with eight medals, including five golds. Hosts Brazil ended with nine medals but had three golds, while Kazakhstan finished third with six medals comprising three golds and three bronzes.