NEW DELHI: Star Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen out-punched Algeria's Boualam Roumaysa to secure a pre-quarterfinal berth in the Women's World Championships here on Sunday.
Last edition's bronze medallist Manisha Maun (57kg) too advanced to the round of 16 with a 5-0 win against Rahimi Tina of Australia.
Competing in the 50kg event, Nikhat beat the reigning African champion by a similar margin to notch her second win in the tournament. Both boxers held themselves back initially and maintained a safe distance.
Nikhat, who won gold in the last edition, drew first blood.
The Algerian followed suit as the two pugilists tried to get the better of each another.
If Nikhat landed a few combination punches, Roumaysa capitalised on the Indian boxer's open stance to land several blows.
However, the first round went in Nikhat's favour and the Indian began the next round by going all out. Roumaysa too looked set to come forward and attack.
Nikhat Nikhat Into the Pre-quarters IBA Womens World Boxing Championships
