New Delhi, July 18 - Olympic bronze medallist Vijender and Akhil Kumar will spearhead India's challenge in the World Boxing Championships to be held in Milan Sep 1-12.

Nine boxers were selected after trials at the National Institute of Sports (NIS) in Patiala. The selection committee decided against sending boxers in the 69 kg and +91 kg categories after they felt that India's chances are slim in these two sections.

Vijender will carry India's hope in the 75 kg category while Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Olympic quarterfinalist Akhil Kumar will take part in the 57 kg.

Another Beijing Games quarterfinalist Jitender Kumar will be India's top bet in the 54 kg section while 18-year-old World Youth Champion Nanao Singh will fight it out in the 48 kg.