Kundu retained in Asian Games boxing squad after ministry decision; Punia moved to reserve

Sumit Kundu retained his place in the Asian Games boxing team and Deepak Punia was moved to a reserve role after a sports ministry decision, the Times of India reported on August 25, 2026.

Kundu kept his spot despite a recent loss in the trial match, while Punia, who won that trial, was placed on the reserve list.

The sports ministry's final decision to include Kundu raises concerns about the need for the trial and has significantly affected both athletes amid the controversy.