Sarita Devi in final of Asian boxing

India's chances of a medal in the inaugural Asian women's boxing championships brightened as L Sarita Devi defeated Jouveliet Chilem of The Philippines to set up a title clash with Zhang Mo of China.

Sarita outclassed her Filipino rival in two rounds, in the 57 kg category.

The 18-year-old Indian started the bout on a low-note, taking time to settle down. Chilem took the fight to Sarita soon after the opening bell, but the Indian moved out to make space for a counter-offensive and landed a couple of quick attacks on her opponent.

Chilem came back with a fresh attack and caught the Indian on wrong foot. The round ended with Sarita leading by a slender margin of 2:1.

Using her height to advantage, Sarita took charge in the second round and dominated right through. With her punches bang on target, the Indian pinned down her rival forcing the referee to end the contest 12:2 in favour of Sarita.

In the other semi-final, Kumari Sushma of India lost her bout to Nantana of Thailand after three rounds in the 54-kg class. Sushma was lacking in attack and made a poor show of herself as the Thai girl stepped up the punching.

Nantana led the first round 5:0. The second and third rounds also went to the Thai, as she made pointed attacks at the Indian's defence. Sushma lost the bout 4:12 on a points decision.

The final will be held on Wednesday.

On Sunday, Sarita Devi overpowered Dulangjai Samranket of Thailand to move into the last four.