Exciting Start to CWG 2026 as Indian Bowls Team Shines: Mansukh Mandaviya

Glasgow, July 24: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, expressed his delight at the spectacular opening of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2026. On the first day of the tournament, the Indian team showcased an impressive performance in the bowls competition. Mandaviya praised the Indian team’s efforts.

The Indian women’s pair of Pinky Singh and Rupa Rani Tirkey kicked off their campaign in the Commonwealth Games 2026 bowls with a thrilling tie-break victory against Malta in the sectional group play stage. Dr. Mandaviya took to his social media platform, ‘X’, to share, “An exciting start to the Commonwealth Games 2026. Today, we witnessed a thrilling match where our athletes secured a fantastic win against Malta in the women’s pairs event with a last-throw victory.”

This sport is being officially played for the first time in the new indoor format of ‘Bowls’ at the Commonwealth Games. The Indian duo faced a tough challenge from the Maltese sisters, Rebecca Louise Rixson and Connie-Le Rixson. After overcoming a tense situation in the second set, Pinky clinched the decisive throw in the tie-break, ensuring victory for the Indian team.

India displayed strong gameplay right from the start. Rupa Rani Tirkey found her rhythm, while Pinky Singh made precise throws. Their excellent teamwork allowed India to gain an early lead, securing two points. Following this, in the men’s singles match, Putul Sonowal also delivered a remarkable performance. He achieved a significant upset in his first Commonwealth Games match by defeating the reigning world champion and World Bowls Hall of Fame member, Ryan Bester, furthering India’s strong start.

Putul Sonowal began his campaign in Section D. In Round 1 of Section D, the match ended in a 1-1 tie during regular time, but Sonowal won the tie-breaker. His first attempt in the tie-break was close to the kitty (target), which ultimately proved sufficient for victory. Sonowal is set to face Cecil Alexander from the Falkland Islands in his next Section D match on Friday.