Boxer Ankush Panghal secures seventh CWG gold for India

Boxer Ankush Panghal delivered a stunning comeback to claim gold in the men's 80kg division at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. He lost his opening round but quickly regained control to defeat England's Dimeji Shittu by a 4-1 split decision on Saturday, August 1. This victory brings India's boxing gold medal count to seven for this year's tournament. Historically, Indian pugilists consistently dominate Commonwealth events due to robust national training programs that develop world-class talent.

Battling Back From Behind

Panghal became only the second male Indian boxer to secure a top podium spot at the current games, following Sachin Siwach. Siwach also achieved a remarkable recovery in his 60kg final. After falling behind in the first two rounds, he forced a standing count against Ndevelo in the final round. That effort earned him a 3-2 split-decision win.

Women Lead With Five Golds

Female athletes significantly boosted India's overall performance with five gold medals. Preeti Pawar opened the winning streak by shutting out Canada's Scarlett Delgado 5-0 in the 54kg class. Reigning world champion Jaismine Lamboria replicated that 5-0 score against Michaela Walsh of Northern Ireland in the 57kg final. Sakshi Chaudhary added a third unanimous 5-0 victory over England's Ruby White in the 51kg division.

Priya Ghanghas faced a tougher challenge but edged out Canada's Marie-Bathoul Al-Ahmadieh with a 4-1 split decision for the 60kg title. Arundhati Choudhary then blanked Chantelle Reid of England 5-0 to take the 70kg crown.

Silver Finishers And Next Bouts

Olympic medalist Lovlina Borgohain earned silver after a narrow 1-4 split decision loss to Australia's Emma-Sue Greentree in the 75kg category. Jadumani Singh also took silver in the men's 55kg event, falling 0-5 to Australia's Jye Dixon. Dixon secured a unanimous decision in the second round after Singh took the first round 3-2.

Currently holding seven gold and two silver medals, the Indian boxing team looks forward to Narender Berwal. He fights England's Damar Thomas for the men's +90kg title, hoping to secure an eighth gold.