Mary Kom, Pavitra in Asian Cup finals
Five-time world champion M C Mary Kom (48kg) and Pavitra (57kg) made the finals of the Asian Cup Women's Boxing Tournament with contrasting wins in the event's last-four stage in Haikou, China.
Mary Kom, playing her first tournament after her bronze medal at the Asian Games, drubbed Kate Appari of Philippines 11-8.
Mary Kom had defeated Appari in the semi-finals of the Women's World Championships in a one-sided contest, on her way to a historic fifth world title in 2009.
Though the Filipino girl fought hard, Mary Kom's experience shone through as she won 11-8 to set up a clash against Myoung Sim Kiu of North Korea.
Pavitra, a gold medallist at the 34th National Games, also made her place in the last two of her weight category beating Yang Yanzi of China.
Pavitra faced stiff opposition from the local girl, but managed to triumph 9-8. She will now fight Tassamalee Thongjam of Thailand for the gold medal.
Mary Kom and Pavitra are the only Indians in the finals of the tournament as compatriots Neetu (60kg), Kavita Goyat (75kg), Laxmi Padiya (81kg) and Kavita Chahal (+81kg) lost their semi-finals to settle for bronze medals.
