Not inside a ring of course, but in a friendly football match with fellow CWG boxers
Not inside a ring of course, but in a friendly football match with fellow CWG boxers
Vijender Singh may be an Olympic champ but even he can be beaten in a local match. Provided, of course, the sport is not boxing!
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A total of 48 boxers are training at the NIS under chief coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu and Cuban coach Blas Iglesias Hernandez. Among hectic fitness training and aggressive sparring the pugilists are given one session in a week to indulge in other team sports.
Coach Sandhu said: "Earlier we would get the boys to play basketball. But since they are too many of them now, football is a better option. And the boys love the exercise."
Around 40 bare-chested, muscle-flaunting fighters descended upon the football field, divided themselves into two teams of 20-each and began what looked more like a free-for-all rather than football.
With their deadly shoulder tackles and karate-style kicks, the boxers thoroughly damaged the reputation of the beautiful game. It was all in good spirit though.
"It's not a serious exercise. The idea is to inculcate in the boys the desire to win and bring about team spirit. At the same, time it ensures there is maximum endurance training too. So, a few pushes, drops, tackles and even light punches here and there are absolutely fine," said Sandhu.
It was no wonder then that Vijender comfortably positioned himself off side and away from the 37-man mess as he protected his body from any possible injury. He got just one chance towards the dying moments of the game and shot accurately into the bottom left of the net and immediately began an aeroplane-style celebration. "I love football and it's even great when I score. And by the way, this is not the first time I have scored," he said proudly.
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