Raba names provisional squad for Delhi Games

Rwanda’s boxing body (Raba) has named an 11-man provisional team for this year’s Commonwealth Games in India. The association’s technical director who also doubles as the national team head coach Gashugi Kananura told Times Sport yesterday that the boxers are part of the team which featured in Sunday’s friendly bout against DRC.

Tuesday, March 02, 2010

Rwanda’s boxing body (Raba) has named an 11-man provisional team for this year’s Commonwealth Games in India.

The association’s technical director who also doubles as the national team head coach Gashugi Kananura told Times Sport yesterday that the boxers are part of the team which featured in Sunday’s friendly bout against DRC.

The pre-selected pugilists are Matusi Haziza (48kg), Eric Baributsa (51kg), Olivier Shingiro (54kg), David Nsabimana (57kg), Michel Gashumba (60kg), Emmanuel Muhumuza (60kg), Sibomana Hategeka (60kg), Theoneste Gakunzi (64kg), Pascal Sibomana (69kg), Jean Morris Bikorimana (69kg) and Vincent Nsengiyumva (75kg).

According to Gashugi, only eight boxers will make the final team. "We are planning to take eight boxers to India so it’s up to the boxers to prove that they are worthy being on the team.”

This will be Rwanda’s maiden appearance at the Games after being confirmed as the CGF Affiliate early this year (January).

The Commonwealth Games is a multinational, multi-sport event. Held every four years, it involves elite athletes from Commonwealth nations.

In another development, Gashugi said Rwanda will field two boxers in the World Junior Boxing Championship slated for April 20-May 2 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The boxers destined for Azerbaijan are Matusi Haziza and Olivier Shingiro.

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