Indian Athletes Gear Up for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

As the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games kick off, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed their unwavering support for the Indian contingent. With over 120 athletes representing India across various sports, the nation stands united behind its champions. The Games, running from July 23 to August 2, promise to showcase the determination and spirit of Indian athletes, as they aim to add to the country's rich legacy in this prestigious event. Read on to discover more about India's strong start and the athletes to watch.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 24, 2026, 23:53 IST

Support for Indian Athletes at Commonwealth Games

New Delhi, July 24: On Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his heartfelt wishes to the Indian team competing in the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, emphasizing that the entire nation is behind its athletes.

In a message shared on X, Singh commended the athletes for their dedication, perseverance, and spirit as they embark on their journey at the Games.

“Wishing the Indian contingent the best as our athletes commence their #Glasgow2026 Commonwealth Games journey. Their unwavering determination, tireless effort, and unyielding spirit will surely lead them to new heights of achievement,” Rajnath Singh stated.

“Every performance they deliver will embody the hopes of 1.4 billion citizens. The nation stands united in support of our champions,” he added.

Previously, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his best wishes to the Indian athletes for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2026, expressing confidence that they would compete with zeal, determination, and excellence, inspiring millions across the nation.

The Commonwealth Games 2026 are taking place from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, with India sending a contingent of over 120 athletes across eight able-bodied sports and five para sports, aiming to enhance its illustrious legacy at this multi-sport event.

“As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games commence, I extend my best wishes to the Indian contingent. I am confident that our athletes will engage in the Games with passion, determination, and a spirit of excellence. The skills and commitment of our athletes consistently inspire countless Indians,” PM Modi remarked in a post on X.

Mirabai Chanu proudly led the Indian team as the flag-bearer during the opening ceremony at Glasgow's Hydro Stadium.

India kicked off its campaign strongly, with Commonwealth champions Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki achieving victory over Malta in the women's fours of Bowls, while Putul Sonowal surprised world champion Ryan Bester in the men's singles.

The Indian duo dominated the first set 7-1, but Malta rallied to win the second set, leading to a tie-break. Pinki's final bowl was crucial in securing the win. Sonowal narrowly won the first set 5-4 before Bester responded with a 7-3 victory in the second set during their Section D opener.

This section includes six players, with the winners from each of the four sections moving on to the semi-finals. Putul will next compete against Cecil Alexander from the Falkland Islands in his second men's singles Section D match, while Pinki and Rupa will face South Africa in their upcoming women's pairs match.

Both matches are set for Friday. At Glasgow 2026, the bowls competition has commenced with sectional group play, where players and teams are vying in a round-robin format for a chance to reach the knockout stages.