India, July 23 -- India are assured of their first medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games even before the contingent officially begins its campaign in Glasgow, with Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain guaranteed at least a bronze in the women's 75kg boxing event.

The Assam boxer received a direct entry into the semifinals after being handed a bye in her weight category. Since both losing semifinalists are awarded bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games, Lovlina is guaranteed a podium finish before even stepping into the ring.

A Commonwealth Games medal was the only major accolade missing from Lovlina's glittering resume, which already includes an Olympic bronze, a World Championships title, and Asian Championships gold.

More to follow......