Rohtak (Haryana), Jan 9 (IANS): Former world junior champion Nikhat Zareen of Telangana breezed past Kerala's Anju Sabu while recently crowned World Youth Championship gold medallist Shashi Chopra of Haryana defeated Shamim Banu of Manipur to advance to the next round of the 2nd Elite Womens National Boxing Championship here on Monday.

In the flyweight category, Nikhat, who was coming back to the ring after a year's gap due to injury, was in great form as she decimated her opponent and landed her jabs with great conviction from the first round itself.

Even though the bout went down to the wire, Nikhat walked away with the honours with a comprehensive 5-0 win.

"I'm happy to come back to the ring after a year's gap due to injury and I felt in great touch as I returned to the ring for my first fight in one year and I would like to continue this form and challenge for the gold medal," the 21-year-old from Telangana said after her bout.

In another enticing clash in the featherweight category, Shashi Chopra also advanced to the next round and will look to challenge for the crown as she beat Shameen Banu in a lop-sided affair which finished 5-0 in the Haryana boxer's favour.