Who Will Lead the 33-Member Indian Squad at BOXAM Elite 2026?
Synopsis
The BOXAM Elite International 2026 in Spain will showcase India's 33-member squad led by boxing stars Hitesh Gulia, Sachin Siwach, and Lovlina Borgohain. As the first major overseas assignment of the year, it aims to set the stage for upcoming Commonwealth and Asian Games. This event is crucial for maintaining India's boxing excellence.
Key Takeaways
Strong leadership with champions Hitesh Gulia and Sachin Siwach.
34-member squad poised for international competition.
Strategic preparation for upcoming Commonwealth and Asian Games.
Transparent selection process based on recent performances.
New coaching staff leading a transitional phase for Indian boxing.
New Delhi, Feb 1 (NationPress) - World Boxing Cup Finals champions Hitesh Gulia and Sachin Siwach, alongside Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain, are set to head a formidable 33-member squad representing India at the BOXAM Elite International 2026, taking place in La Nucia, Alicante, Spain.
This tournament signifies India's inaugural major overseas boxing event for the year and is pivotal for preparations leading up to the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in 2026.
The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) announced the squad on Sunday, which was selected based on performances from the recently concluded 9th Elite Men and Women National Boxing Championships. Gold and silver medallists from this event have been chosen in Olympic weight categories, while silver medallists have been included in non-Olympic divisions, adhering to the BFI's selection policy.
India approaches this competition following an outstanding 2025 season, which featured a record total of 20 medals, including nine gold, at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Greater Noida.
In discussing the selection, BFI President Ajay Singh stated that the objective is to maintain momentum and continuity.
“Following our achievements in 2025, our focus now shifts to continuity and progression. The BOXAM Elite serves as a crucial step as we refine our core group, enhance competition readiness, and prepare for the demanding international calendar ahead. The National Championships are the foundation of our high-performance strategy, and this squad reflects our dedication to rewarding form, consistency, and potential,” he remarked.
This event will also signal a transitional phase for Indian boxing, with Santiago Nieva taking the helm of the women’s team in his inaugural international role as head coach, while Kuttappa Chenanda Achaiah will lead the men's squad.
Squads:
Men:
Rishi Singh (50 kg), Jadumani Singh (55 kg), Pawan Bartwal (55 kg), Mohammed Hussam Uddin (60 kg), Sachin Siwach (60 kg), Aditya Pratap Yadav (65 kg), Abhinash Jamwal (65 kg), Hitesh Gulia (70 kg), Deepak (70 kg), Akash (75 kg), Ankush (80 kg), Malsawmtluanga (80 kg), Jugnoo Ahlawat (85 kg), Harsh Choudhary (90 kg), Naman Tanwar (90 kg), Sawan Gill (90+ kg).
Women:
Manju Rani (48 kg), Nitu (51 kg), Kusum (51 kg), Preeti (54 kg), Poonam (54 kg), Prachi (57 kg), Vinka (57 kg), Priya (60 kg), Disha Vijay Patil (60 kg), Pranjal Yadav (65 kg), Kajal (65 kg), Arundhati Choudhary (70 kg), Sneha (70 kg), Lovlina Borgohain (75 kg), Sanamacha Chanu (75 kg), Naina (80 kg), Mankirat Kaur (80+ kg).
Point of View
This announcement reflects India's ongoing commitment to promoting excellence in boxing. The selection of a robust 33-member squad emphasizes the nation's focus on nurturing talent and ensuring competitive readiness on the international stage. The BFI's strategy of prioritizing recent performances showcases a transparent and fair selection process, reinforcing the belief in the potential of our athletes. As we approach the Commonwealth and Asian Games, support for our boxers is paramount.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BOXAM Elite International 2026?
The BOXAM Elite International 2026 is India's first major overseas boxing event of the year, serving as a crucial preparation ground for the Commonwealth and Asian Games later in 2026.
Who are the key athletes leading the Indian squad?
The squad is led by World Boxing Cup Finals champions Hitesh Gulia and Sachin Siwach, along with Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain.
How was the squad selected?
The squad was selected based on performances at the recently concluded 9th Elite Men and Women National Boxing Championships, adhering to the BFI's selection policy.
What is the role of the new coaches for the teams?
Santiago Nieva will coach the women's team and Kuttappa Chenanda Achaiah will lead the men's squad, marking a transition phase for Indian boxing.
What were India's achievements in 2025?
India had an exceptional 2025 season, winning a record haul of 20 medals, including nine gold, at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Greater Noida.
