Vikas confident of Gold Quest!

New Delhi: Vikas Krishan cut a confident figure in India's Commonwealth Games squad. The straight-talking pugilist from Haryana has enough experience under his belt to be overawed by the occasion at Australia, but he doesn't believe in getting ahead of himself either.

In fact, the 26-year-old feels Indian boxers have no option but to notch good performances at the Games, especially after the way they have been supported by Boxing Federation of India.

Vikas himself doesn't want to think of anything less than a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games. He is spurred by his recent performance at the Strandja Memorial Tournament in the Bulgarian capital Sofia where he won gold besides being adjudged the best boxer of the event. He had defeated world championships bronze-medallist Troy Isley of the USA in the men's 75 kg final. It was his first medal since his Asian Championships bronze last year.

"It was a big moment for me. I now feel much stronger and confident as a boxer. I worked on my technique and endurance. There were times earlier when I used to bow out in first or second rounds. But this time I took things seriously and did well against quality opponents. I am very confident of doing something good in Commonwealth Games," Vikas told DH.

"Commonwealth Games are easier than Asian Games and World Championships, and a lot easier than Olympic Games. Only one or two boxers should be good at that level. I am in good form. But then the first fight is always tough. So I hope I get an easier opponent in the opening round."

Vikas, who is 2014 Asian Games bronze medallist, strongly felt Indian boxers should come up with good performances. "The federation has left the boxers free, have given them exposure trips and competitions, and spent so much money on them. If we can't win today, then we can never win the medals. We used to complain earlier but now we have been provided everything. We have a good team. Now we will have to give performances," he said.

India have sent a 12-member boxing squad to the Commonwealth Games, beginning April 4.

DH News Service