Indian Boxer Mandeep Jangra Blames New Scoring System For Asian Games Loss

Indian boxer Mandeep Jangra Sunday said failure to adapt to the new scoring system introduced at the Incheon Asian Games led to his quarter-final loss in the event.

Mandeep (69kg) lost to Thailand's Saensit Apichet by a 27-29, 27-29, 26-29 verdict in the last eight stage.

"The scoring system in the Asiad was different. I couldn't adjust to it. In the new scoring pattern you need to create a good impression on the judges. You need to establish your dominance over opponents and convince the judges of your superiority," Mandeep said.

"But I am more used to the earlier points system of scoring. So I kept concentrating on getting points and lost out on the opportunity of establishing my superiority on the judges."

The international boxing association (AIBA) Aug 31 introduced scoring rules similar to those used in professional bouts and the Asian Games were the first international event where they were implemented.

Under the new rules, there are now five scoring judges but only three are counted at random, meaning a boxer could win 3-0 or lose 1-2, depending on which scores are taken.

Judging in boxing is a complex process and is not regarded as an exact science but the new system has come under intense criticism, particularly after a series of fights were awarded to South Korean boxers in the Asiad.

Boxers from the Philippines, India and Mongolia all claimed they were the victims of scoring that favoured South Koreans in Incheon.

India's female pugilist L. Sarita Devi has been suspended by AIBA for refusing to accept her bronze medal after controversially going down 0-3 to South Korea's Park Ji-Na in the semi-final.

However, the 21-year-old Jangra refused to comment on Sarita's stance, saying it will be unfair for him to speak on the issue but he "could feel what went through her mind after the verdict".

Jangra's next target is the World Championship to be played in Doha from Oct 18, next year.

"I am preparing hard for the championships. I am trying to rectify my mistakes and qualify for the 2016 Olympics," the Haryana lad said.