Boxer Pinki Rani set for CWG challenge

Boxer Pinki Rani has said she would aim to change the colour of her 2014 Commonwealth Games bronze medal as she prepares herself for the 2018 Gold Coast challenge.

"I enjoy taking tough challenges. We double our hard work seeing a tough challenge. Last time, I gave my 100 per cent and this time I will give 120 per cent to change the color of the medal," Pinki told ANI.

Pinki will spearhead India's challenge at the CWG 2018 in women's 51 kg weight category after her dominating run to the gold at the India Open.

Talking about the competition in the category, Pinki said, "Last year also the CWG had 51 kg category, so definitely this year we will have a bigger competition. The Olympics also have this weight category. Countries field very strong contestants in this category, so, I have prepared myself according to that."

The 27-year-old boxer added that she would continue to play her game of aggression to eye medal at the CWG Games.

"I have always adopted the game of aggression. I have all the medals by keeping myself in a dominant position. I have sharpened myself on that only. I have worked on my speed, stamina," Pinki said.

The Indian contingent for the 2018 CWG Games also includes MC Mary Kom (48kg), Laisharam Devi (60-kg) and Lovlina Boroghain (69-kg).

Talking about Mary Kom, the Haryana boxer said that having a veteran boxer in the team helps in boosting the confidence of the players.

"It gives us immense confidence that we are part of a team which also includes a five time world champion and Olympic medallist. Having a strong contender like her creates pressure on the players of other countries," the pugilist said.

Pinki further hailed the Indian boxers, saying that they have the skills to outplay any boxer on a world stage.

"Indian doesn't lack in any skill if we compare to other countries. When we go for training in other countries, they consider us as strong contenders. Foreign players may outlay us in terms of speed but we excel in aggression and will power, which eventually helps us in scoring medals," she said.

The 2018 Commonwealth Games will begin from April 4.