(Beijing, November 21) After a day's rest the 51kg semifinals held this evening saw India's Jitender Kumar pitted against Chatchai Butdee of Thailand. However, the young Indian boxer failed to outdo his Thai opponent by 18-7. After the match, Kumar's coach said the result was not so important to them as they regarded it as a good opportunity for Kumar to gain experience.

In tonight's semifinal Kumar lost the first round quickly with 2-4. Obviously not in form, he soon conceded the second 3-9. In the third round Kumar adjusted his tactics and tried to turn the tide with an aggressive play, but the result turned out to be disappointing as Butdee eventually clinched the win by 18-7.

The Indian boxer showed his dissatisfaction with his performance, looking depressed on his way out of the mixed zone. In an interview with the media, Kumar's coach said they valued more the opportunity to learn from others and that Kumar, young as he is, need more such opportunities to improve both his techniques and tactics.