Sri Lanka’s boxing ambitions at next month’s Asian Games received another shot in the arm with Keshani Hansika winning a bronze medal in the lightweight class at the Indonesian Police Commissioner’s Cup (Kapolri Cup) International Open in Manado last week.
Hansika, 27, knocked out home favourite Stella Maama in the 57kg category in her opening bout to reach the semi-finals and ensure Sri Lanka of a bronze medal. She then faced tough Vietnamese Vuong ThiVy in an attempt to reach the gold medal final but suffered heartbreak as she lost narrowly in a split decision.
“It was disappointing to lose so narrowly. I felt I had done enough to win but unfortunately that was not the case. Yet, I’m very happy with my performance as this will be a huge boost as I look forward to the Asian Games,” Hansika said soon after returning home.
More than 150 boxers, the cream of Asia, took part in this final competition before the Asian Games gets underway in Jakarta and Palembang from August 18 to September 2.
Hansika’s performance capped off a good tour for the Sri Lankan women’s contingent who have been on the road for the last month preparing for the Asian Games. A fortnight ago, local queen of the ring, Anusha Kodithuwakku also won a bronze medal at the Ulaanbataar Cup in Mongolia.