BFI nominates Gaurav Bidhuri, Amit Panghal for Arjuna awards

Boxing Federation of India has recommended the World Championships Bronze medallist, Gaurav Bidhuri and Asian Games Gold medalist, Amit Panghal for Arjuna Awards.

Amit, a silver medalist at the CWG and a gold medallist at the Asian Games was at his dominant best in the 52kg category of the recently-concluded Asian Championships.

He defeated Olympic gold medallist Hasanboy Dusmatov in the quarters and Rio Olympics bronze medallist, China's Jianguan Hu in the semis of the Asian Championships.

"We had quite a few names to dwell upon however after extensive consultation by the selection committee we decided to go with the names of the most deserving boxers, Amit and Gaurav," Ajay Singh, BFI President said.

"I extend the boxers best wishes and hope the hard work and laurels will be considered while the names are picked," he added.

Elite Indian coaches, Sandhya Gurung, and Shiv Singh have also been recommended for this year's Dronacharya Award.

Sandhya has been with the women's elite team for nearly a decade whereas Shiv Singh has coached for the past three decades.

Shiv Singh has lent expertise to both the men's and women's teams. He was the head coach of the Women's team till last November.

In a grand ceremony, Indian boxing contingent was felicitated for their stellar performances at the Asian Championships.

Pooja Rani who scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win a gold in the 81kg category at the Asian Championship dedicated her medal to her sister.

"I would like to dedicate this medal to my sister and my coaches who has been a constant inspiration and pillar to my journey. I know this is just a beginning and I am going to work hard and aim to qualify for the World Championships, which also is an Olympics qualifier," Pooja Rani said at the event.

Indian pugilists will next be seen in the upcoming India Open which takes place in Guhawati from May 20-24. Almost 18 countries have confirmed their participation in the tournament so far.