Hussamuddin punches his way to another podium finish at the Commonwealth Games

Nitu Ghanghas enters the women’s 48kg last-four on her debut, thrashing Northern Ireland’s Nicole Clyde

Mohammad Hussamuddin secured his second successive Commonwealth Games podium finish and young Nitu Ghanghas entered the last-four on her debut in the mega event as India was assured of two medals at the boxing arena here on Wednesday.

Hussamuddin warded off a strong challenge from Namibian Tryagain Ndevelo to record a 4-1 win in a men’s 57kg quarterfinal match. Two-time World youth champion Nitu, meanwhile, thrashed Northern Ireland’s Nicole Clyde to enforce an ‘abandoned’ result in her favour in a women’s 48kg last-eight bout.

In a clash of southpaws, Hussamuddin banked on his experience as he moved in to deliver quick combinations on his taller rival.

Ndevelo connected some good punches as the two were engaged in a fascinating exchange in the first round, which the Indian won with a 3-2 verdict.

Ndevelo displayed his straight punches and uppercuts while trying to close the gap, but Hussamuddin showed his good footwork and fast hands to stay marginally ahead in the second round.

The Indian’s fine foot-hand coordination and overall endurance helped him unleash a bigger volume of punches and take the bout.