Everyone’s eyes will be on me, I'll have to work even harder: Minakshi

MINAKSHI HOODA is full of purpose at the moment.

- ANMOL GURUNG @Chennai

The Indian boxer, who made giant strides last year, is not letting her guard down.“It’s time to consolidate,” she says, embracing fresh challenges in store in the new year. It’s an opportunity for her to evolve further as there are some significant events including the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in the calendar this year. “I have to work twice as hard,” the 48kg boxer from Rurki village, Haryana, declares with conviction.

Her first challenge for the new season begins on Sunday as the national championships (both men and women), which is being conducted at the Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida, will get underway. Minakshi, who announced herself to the world last year by capturing the gold medal during the World Championship, will be plotting to defend her 48kg crown during the premier domestic competition.