"I think Arundhati will win 5-0": Local coach Ashok Gautam confident of CWG 2026 gold
Kota, August 1
Indian boxer Arundhati Choudhary's local coach, Ashok Gautam, expressed confidence in her winning the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after she advanced to the women's 70kg final, defeating defending champion Rosie Eccles of Wales in a closely fought semifinal on Friday.
Speaking from Kota, Gautam said Arundhati's hard work had helped her reach the final and backed her to beat England's Chantelle Reid in the title clash.
"Arundhati has achieved this milestone with her hard work. She will face England's Chantelle Reid next. I think Arundhati will win 5-0. She has been performing really well in the CWG. She has been hardworking since the beginning," Gautam told ANI.
The coach also expressed hope that Arundhati would continue her success at the international level and win a gold medal for India at the Olympics.
"I hope she wins Gold for India even in the next Olympics," he said.
Indian boxer Arundhati Choudhary advanced to the women's 70kg final at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after defeating defending champion Rosie Eccles of Wales in a closely fought semifinal on Friday, according to ESPN.
Arundhati produced a composed performance against the experienced Welsh boxer, using her effective counter-punching and accuracy to edge past her opponent in a split decision victory.
Eccles started aggressively in the opening round and looked to apply early pressure, but Arundhati stayed patient and responded with cleaner punches. A standing count against Eccles late in the round helped the Indian gain momentum, with the judges awarding the round in her favour, according to ESPN.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Her counter-punching was so refined in the semis! The standing count against Eccles really shifted the momentum. Hope she carries this form into the final and brings home the gold. It would be amazing to see an Indian woman dominate in the 70kg category on such a big stage.
Coach Gautam's confidence is well-placed. Arundhati has been consistently sharp. But let's not get overconfident—Chantelle Reid will be a tough opponent. Fingers crossed for a 5-0! 🤞
It's so inspiring to see grassroots coaches like Ashok Gautam getting recognition. A lot of credit goes to them for building champions from small towns. Arundhati's journey from Kota to the CWG final is a story every young athlete should read. 🌟
The split decision win shows she had to work for it. I hope the judges are fair in the final. Her composure under pressure is world-class. An Olympic gold prediction is bold, but if she keeps improving, who knows? Good luck, Arundhati!
First time following her career after this semifinal, and I'm impressed! The way she outboxed a more experienced boxer was brilliant. This is exactly the kind of confidence India needs in international boxing. We're all behind you, Arundhati! 🥇
R