"Our athletes always inspire countless Indians": PM Modi applauds India's dedication as CWG Glasgow campaign begins
New Delhi, July 24
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent for the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026, expressing confidence that the athletes will compete with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence while inspiring millions across the country.
The Commonwealth Games 2026 is being held from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, with India fielding a contingent of more than 120 athletes across eight able-bodied sports and five para sports as it looks to add to its rich legacy at the multi-sport event.
"As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent. I am confident that our athletes will participate in the Games with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence. The skills and dedication of our athletes always inspire countless Indians," PM Modi wrote in an X post.
Mirabai Chanu led the Indian contingent as the flag-bearer during the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2026 at Glasgow's Hydro Stadium.
India also made a strong start to its campaign, with Commonwealth champions Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki securing a victory over Malta in the Bowls women's fours, while Putul Sonowal stunned world champion Ryan Bester in the men's singles.
The Indian duo dominated the opening set 7-1, but Malta fought back to win the second set and force a tie-break. Pinki's final bowl proved decisive as India sealed the victory.
Sonowal edged the first set 5-4 before Bester responded with a 7-3 win in the second set in their Section D opener. The section features six players, with the winners of each of the four sections advancing to the semi-finals.
Putul will next face Cecil Alexander of the Falkland Islands in his second men's singles Section D match, while Pinki and Rupa will take on South Africa in their next women's pairs fixture.
Both matches are scheduled for Friday.
At Glasgow 2026, bowls has begun with sectional group play, with players and teams competing in a round-robin format for a place in the knockout stages.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So proud of our athletes! The Bowls women's fours win over Malta was thrilling—Pinki and Rupa showed great teamwork. But I wish we had more focus on sports like athletics and swimming too. Still, every medal matters! Go India! 🌟
Great start with Pinki and Rupa's win! But I'm a bit concerned about the overall medal tally—we have strong competitors this time. Hope the government invests more in grassroots sports beyond just these events. Well done to PM for the support though!
What a moment for women's sports! First Mirabai as flag-bearer, now our girls dominating in bowls. Putul's upset win over a world champion is incredible too. This is the kind of spirit that inspires millions. Cheers to all athletes! 🏆
PM Modi's encouragement is nice, but I wonder why we always need a government statement every time. Let the athletes' performance speak. That said, big respect to Putul for beating a world champ—that shows real determination! Keep it up, Team India!
So proud to see India fielding 120+ athletes! The Bowls win was a masterclass in pressure handling. But we need to support non-cricket sports more—these athletes deserve better facilities and recognition. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
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