CWG 2022: Shiva Thapa Beats Pakistani Opponent 5-0 In Round Of 32 Bout

Commonwealth Games 2022: Shiva Thapa hardly broke a sweat as he registered a comprehensive 5-0 win over Suleman Baloch to move to the pre-quarterfinals of the63.5 kg category.

Ace Indian boxer Shiva Thapa outclassed Pakistan's Suleman Baloch in the first round of the 63.5kg category bout to begin his Commonwealth Games campaign on a rousing note here on Friday. Having lived with the disappointment of not making his second successive Olympics in Tokyo last year, the former Asian champion was far superior than his taller and aggressive rival to emerge 5-0 winner in his light welter weight category. The decision from the judges was unanimous at the NEC Arena.

The 28-year-old, who was eliminated in the pre-quarters of Glasgow 2014 in his only CWG appearance prior to these Games, will next face Reese Lynch of Scotland in the round of 16 on Sunday.

This also kicked off in style India's campaign in the boxing ring, where they have some exciting prospects in reigning world champion Nikhat Zareen, Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain and world championship silver medallist Amit Panghal.

India would look to eclipse their Gold Coast's record tally of three gold, three silver and three bronze medals.