Ludhiana, June 13: Indian hurdler Tejas Shirse made history on Saturday by delivering an outstanding performance at the Indian Athletics Series 9. He completed the men’s 110-meter hurdles in just 13.27 seconds, setting a new national record. This achievement strengthens his bid for a spot on the Commonwealth Games 2026 team.
The 24-year-old athlete broke his own national record of 13.41 seconds set in 2024. This performance ranks among the best sprint-hurdle displays by an Indian athlete. He also comfortably surpassed the Athletics Federation of India’s Commonwealth Games qualification standard of 13.39 seconds.
In the ‘B’ final, Shirse got off to a strong start and quickly took the lead. Despite hitting the last hurdle, he maintained his speed to cross the finish line in 13.27 seconds. Krishik M finished second with a time of 13.55 seconds.
Last month, Tejas won gold at the Federation Cup held in Ranchi with a time of 13.50 seconds. His latest performance currently places him sixth on the continental list for 2026.
This achievement is significant for Indian athletics. If selected, Tejas could become the first Indian male hurdler to compete in the Commonwealth Games since Siddharth Thingalaya in 2014.
On a different note, Mohammad Afzal had a disappointing run in the men’s 800 meters, clocking in at 1:47.00, while the qualification standard was set at 1:45.00. This result may end his hopes of making the Commonwealth Games team.
In the men’s javelin throw competition, several athletes aimed to meet the qualification mark. With World Championship finalist Sachin Yadav sidelined due to an elbow injury and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra still recovering, throwers Rohit Yadav, Shivam Lohkare, and Kishore Kumar Jena remain in contention for a spot on the national team.
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