Sofia (Bulgaria): Former world youth champion Sachin and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Sagar entered the quarterfinals on day three of the 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament here on Tuesday. Sachin (57kg) was up against Uzbekistan's Fayzov Khudoynazar in the pre-quarters and both the boxers came out with an attacking intent but it was Fayzov who took a slight advantage in the first round.
Sachin looked transformed in the second round and initiated a comeback by using his quick reflexes to dodge multiple attacks before landing some accurate jabs. In the third round, he was at his attacking best, leaving his opponent clueless with his sharp punches and quick movements, ultimately grabbing a phenomenal 3-2 win to enter the quarter-finals. He will now face Kapanadze Giorgi of Georgia on Friday.
Sagar (92+kg) faced Lithuania's Jazeviciius Jonas in the pre-quarters. The Indian pugilist looked completely in control of the game from the get-go as he put up a scintillating attacking display, making his way into the quarterfinals with a 5-0 unanimous decision win. Sagar will now take on Zokirov Jakhongir of Uzbekistan on Thursday.
Vanshaj (63.5kg) went down fighting in a close contest against Iran's Habibinezhad Ali. Both the boxers were cautious in their approach and were looking to capitalise on counterattacks. Vanshaj had his moments of domination but eventually, the final verdict came against him as he lost the bout 2-3 to end his campaign.
Late on Monday, Arundhati Choudhary (66kg) made her way into the quarterfinals with a 4-1 win over France's Sonvico Emilie. She will now face Matovic Milena of Serbia on Thursday. Manisha (60kg), on the other hand, went down 2-3 against Zidani Amina of France in the pre-quarters. The Strandja Memorial is one of Europe's oldest international sports competitions and is witnessing participation of over 300 pugilists from 30 countries.
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