Indian boxers return after securing Olympic berths

Indian boxers returned home on Saturday after an unprecedented seven pugilists earned an Olympic berth at the Asian Olympic Qualifiers in Astana, Kazakhstan, earlier this week.

While Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh was confident that he and fellow boxers will fight and give their best in the London event, he added that there was pressure to earn a passage. "There was pressure but I am happy that I have qualified. I would now look to give my best in the London Olympics," he said on his arrival.

Apart from Vijender, teen sensations Shiva Thapa (56kg) and Sumit Sangwan (81kg) also qualified for the London Olympics which will begin from July 27. Shiva in fact, became the youngest Indian boxer at 18, to qualify for the Olympics. His performance at Astana was built on strong jabs and right straight punches, according to national coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu.

The Indian Olympic Association, a day earlier, had already hailed the performance and assured that every support would be provided to the boxers and other athletes so that they can excel in the prestigious international event.