40 Boxers Left In Limbo As SAI Omission Delays Selection Trials For CWG, Asian Games

As many as 40 boxers have been left in uncertainty after their names were omitted from the sanction letter issued by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for the ongoing national camp, raising serious concerns over their participation in the selection process for major international events this year.

According to the selection policy framed by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI), the top two finishers across 20 weight categories 10 each in men’s and women’s divisions at the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Cup held from March 30 to April 5 were to be inducted into the national camp. These 40 eligible boxers were expected to compete in the assessment trials that would determine India’s squads for the upcoming global competitions.

However, the sanction letter received by the federation on April 29 did not include these names , prompting immediate concern. “The sanction was received on April 29, and 40 names are currently missing,” BFI stated, adding that it is in continuous communication with SAI but is yet to receive clarity.

The uncertainty has already impacted the schedule, with the selection trials pushed back by a day , now set to begin on May 6 instead of May 5.

Under the revised format, the assessment will be conducted in two phases , starting with Strength and Conditioning tests on May 6 and 7, followed by sparring bouts in a knockout format from May 11 to 15. The evaluation carries a total of 200 marks , combining technical performance with non-technical parameters such as attendance, weight and health management, and overall conditioning.

One of the affected boxers expressed frustration, stating that winning at the COAS Cup was presented as the only pathway to enter the camp , especially for those who missed national championships due to injury.

The issue comes at a crucial time, with the Commonwealth Games 2026 scheduled from July 23 to August 2 and the Asian Games 2026 set for September 19 to October 4.

Unless the matter is resolved swiftly, several deserving athletes risk missing a vital opportunity to represent India on the international stage.