Commonwealth Games: India win first-ever gold medal in Lawn Bowls
India have clinched their first-ever gold medal in Lawn Bowls after defeating South Africa in the final of the Women's Fours event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games (CWG). The Indian quartet of Lovely Choubey, Pinki Choudhury, Nayanmoni Saikia, and Rupa Rani led India to their first-ever CWG medal in the sport. Earlier, India defeated New Zealand 16-13 in the semi-finals. Here are further details.
History for India!
Why does this story matter?
India have secured their first-ever medal at Lawn Bowls (men or women), a sport yet to gain recognition. And, it is a gold medal. In the semi-finals, they stunned New Zealand, who have a total of 40 medals in this sport. Both New Zealand and South Africa are among the five most successful teams in Lawn Bowls (across categories).
How did the final pan out?
India were trailing 1-2 at the start of the final. However, the Indians claimed a 4-2 lead after End 5 with some resounding throws. India further extended their lead to 8-2 after End 7. South Africa bounced back thereafter, claiming a two-point cushion (10-8). Both teams had 10 points each after End 12. India then regained the lead and eventually won 17-10.
How is the game played?
In Lawn bowls, matches are played on a green field within a 'rink' area. There are six rinks per green. One competitor rolls a small ball (jack) at least 23 metres in the green. The competitors then take turns to roll their bowls, vying to ensure they are the closest to the jack. Points are awarded for each bowl.
India enter this elite list
Scotland and England have the joint-most gold medals at the Lawn Bowls (all-time tally). Meanwhile, England lead the overall medals tally (51). Australia and New Zealand have won 40 medals each. India have entered this elite list.
Meet the Indian women who scripted history
Lovely Choubey, deemed as their leader, is a constable with Jharkhand Police. Meanwhile, Rupa Rani Tirkey works in the Ranchi sports department. Pinki Choudhury works as a sports teacher with DPS, RK Puram, New Delhi. She is believed to have picked up the sport during the 2010 CWG in Delhi. Besides, Nayanmoni Saikia, who has a farming background, works in the Assam forest department.
India's fourth gold medal at CWG 2022
The four women handed India its fourth gold medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games. Earlier, weightlifters Mirabai Chanu, Jeremy Lalrinnunga, and Achinta Sheuli won gold for India in Birmingham. India now has a total of 10 medals at CWG 2022.
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