Somrak analyzes why Banchong, a three-time SEA Games champion, was eliminated in the first round of the 2026 Asian Games and explains the reason for calling up Nabil.
On 22 September 2026 GMT+7, updates reported that Banchong Sinsiri, a Thai national boxing team member in the 70-kilogram division, lost to an Indian boxer by a 0-5 decision and was eliminated in the first round of the 2026 Asian Games boxing competition.
Originally, 34-year-old Banchong competed in the 65-kilogram division and held three SEA Games championships. However, since the 65-kilogram category was not included in the 2026 Asian Games, he was moved up to compete in the 70-kilogram division, which currently lacks Thai athletes.
Somrak Kamsing, the 1996 Olympic gold medalist and advisor to the Thailand Boxing Association, analyzed Banchong's defeat.
"If you ask why Banchong lost, he is a very skilled boxer in the 65-kilogram class and a three-time SEA Games champion. But since the 65-kilogram division was not included in the 2026 Asian Games, we had to move Banchong up to 70 kilograms because we have no boxer in that class. That’s why I contacted Nabil Anan to compete in this weight class. You understand, right?"
"Also, Banchong has served the national team for a long time. He’s now 34 years old and will be 36 in two years. The 70-kilogram division will likely be Nabil’s. For the 65-kilogram division, we need to find reserves—maybe look at Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Saeng-Athit, Luksai Kongdin, or Lamnamoon Lek Tded99. We could have them compete against Banchong or bring up boxers from the B team for selection. We still need to discuss with Banchong whether he wants to continue. We must accept that Banchong is small for the 70-kilogram class, but we thank him for representing the national team."
Meanwhile, the Thailand Boxing Association has set a goal for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan to win one gold and one silver medal. It remains to be seen if they will achieve this target.