Boxer Laishram Sarita Devi fails to qualify for Olympics

Astana: Asian Games 2014 bronze medallist Laishram Sarita Devi failed to qualify for the Olympics after she was knocked out of the Women`s World Boxing Championships in the second round here on Saturday.

Lightweight pugilist Sarita (60 kg), a former world champion, lost 0-3 to Mexican Victoria Torres.

It came as a double blow to India as London Olympic bronze medal winner M.C. Mary Kom also exited the competition earlier in the day.

World Championships are the final qualifying competition for the Rio Games to be held from August 5-21. Only three weight categories of 51 kg, 60 kg and 75 kg are part of the women`s boxing competitions at the Olympics.

An entry into the semi-finals not only assures the boxer of a medal but also a berth for the Olympics.