Nikhat Zareen Shocker: Exits Trials for Major Games 2026

Indian boxing fans are reeling from the news that ace pugilist Nikhat Zareen won’t feature in the Glasgow Commonwealth Games or Japan’s Asian Games. The two-time world champion’s campaign ended abruptly in the Patiala trials with a 1-4 semifinal loss to Sakshi Chaudhary in the 51kg women’s division.

At 29, Zareen entered the trials under pressure, her form dipping after months on the sidelines from the national team. This loss compounds her recent semifinal heartbreak at the Asian Championships in Ulaanbaatar, where a 0-5 defeat to China’s Wu Yu denied her automatic qualification.

Flashback to 2023: Zareen was at her peak, securing World Championship gold in New Delhi with a flawless 5-0 win over Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Tam in 48-50kg. Her medal cabinet also includes Commonwealth gold and Asian Games bronze, underscoring her elite status.

Meanwhile, Neetu Ghanghas bowed out to rising star Meenakshi, paving the way for a new representative in 51kg. As India eyes international glory, Zareen’s ouster highlights the fierce domestic competition and the need for a strong resurgence from the veteran boxer.