India at Tokyo Olympics: Wrestler Sonam Malik crashes out after losing opening bout

Indian wrestler Sonam Malik crashed out in the first round of women’s 62kg category at the Tokyo Olympics on Tuesday. Image: Twitter

Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian wrestler Sonam Malik crashed out in the first round of women’s 62kg category at the Tokyo Olympics on Tuesday. The 19 year old lost to Bolortuya Khurelkhuu 2-2 on criteria as the Mongolian equalised with a takedown in the last minute.

Sonam gave a good account of herself , taking a 1-0 lead in the first period against the Asian championships silver medallist. Sonam doubled her lead, driving Bolortuya out early in the second period.

The Indian thwarted at least four attempts of leg attack from the Mongolian but paid the price for her defensive approach.

Bolortuya attacked Sonam’s right leg to bring about the crucial takedown with just 30 seconds left on the clock.

Sonam’s chances of making it to the repechage round ended when the Mongolian was outclassed by 2018 World champion and 2019 Worlds silver medallist Taybe Mustafa Yusein of Bulgaria in the quarterfinals.