Why Lovolina Borgholin is guaranteed to open India's medal account even before the Commonwealth Games start
The Olympic medallist from Assam has secured a podium finish without entering the ring after gaining a direct bye to the final four in her weight class
XtraTime Newsdesk: The Commonwealth Games 2026 are yet to begin, but India has already won their first medal even before the opening ceremony. The 23rd edition of the Games, hosted in Glasgow, Scotland, has seen boxer Lovlina Borgohain advance to the semifinals in the women's 75kg division. The Olympic medallist from Assam has secured a podium finish without entering the ring after gaining a direct bye to the final four in her weight class. Under Commonwealth Games boxing regulations, all losing semifinalists receive bronze medals, ensuring Lovlina at least a bronze medal before her debut battle in Glasgow.
Borgohain, competing in the women's 75kg middleweight division, advanced directly to the semifinals after getting a bye in a field of just five boxers. With just five participants in the draw, three, including Borgohain, proceeded to the final four, while the other two were slated to compete in the lone quarterfinal.
Lovlina will begin her campaign on July 31 against Taafaki in the semifinals, with a berth in the gold medal match at stake. A win would advance the Indian boxer to the final and ensure her at least a silver medal, while a loss would result in her leaving Glasgow with a bronze medal.
