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Nikhat, Nitu cruise into final of World ChampionshipsReigning champion Nikhat used her speed and tactical acumen to see off Valencia and continue the defence of her title
PTI
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India's Nikhat Zareen reacts after winning her 48kg-50kg (Light Flyweight) category semifinals match against Colombia's Ingrit Valencia at the 2023 IBA Women's Boxing World Championships, in New Delhi. Credit: PTI Photo
India's Nikhat Zareen reacts after winning her 48kg-50kg (Light Flyweight) category semifinals match against Colombia's Ingrit Valencia at the 2023 IBA Women's Boxing World Championships, in New Delhi. Credit: PTI Photo

Nikhat Zareen (50 kg) and Nitu Ghanghas (48 kg) advanced to the final of the Women's World Championships with stellar semifinal wins here on Thursday.

While Nikhat out-punched Rio Olympics bronze medallist Ingrit Valencia of Colombia 5-0, Nitu eked out a 5-2 victory over Alua Balkibekova of Kazakhstan.

Reigning champion Nikhat used her speed and tactical acumen to see off Valencia and continue the defence of her title.

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Earlier in the rematch of last year's quarterfinals, Nitu and Balkibekova went all guns blazing in the first round. However, the Kazakh was more dominant and took the round 2-3.

In the second round, Nitu came out strongly, landing hooks and jabs.

Both boxers resorted to body blows and clinching with Nitu ending on top.

The final three minutes were a tense affair with Nitu getting the better of Balkibekova, forcing a bout review.

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(Published 23 March 2023, 19:46 IST)