Golaghat (Assam), 30 September (HS): Assam boxer Lovlina Borgohain booked her place in the women’s 75kg final at the Asian Games after edging past Kazakhstan’s Natalia Bogdanova 3-2 in the semifinal, sparking celebrations at her home in Golaghat.

Lovlina’s father, Tiken Borgohain, said the family was delighted with her performance and expressed hope that she would go one step further and clinch the gold medal in the final.

“I am very happy that she has secured the silver medal. Her weight has increased by around two kg and she is slightly tired, while also following a strict diet,” Tiken said.

The final is scheduled for October 2, which also marks Lovlina’s birthday. Her father said a gold medal on the occasion would make the day especially memorable for the Olympic bronze medallist.

“Her final is on October 2, which is also her birthday. If she wins the final, it will be the best gift for her,” he said.

Tiken also urged people to continue praying for and supporting Lovlina ahead of the title clash. He said she regularly speaks to her parents before important bouts and had called them ahead of the semifinal.

Her mother, Mamoni Borgohain, said Lovlina spoke to the family on the morning of her semifinal, bringing further joy to her parents.

Tiken said he was uncertain whether Lovlina would return to Assam immediately after the Asian Games, as another World Championship is scheduled soon.

Lovlina has now reached the Asian Games final for the second successive edition. She had claimed the women’s 75kg gold at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and will now attempt to retain her continental title.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash