Putul Sonowal Aims for Commonwealth Games Glory After Upsetting World Champion

Putul Sonowal, an Indian lawn bowls player, is optimistic about India's performance at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after defeating world champion Ryan Bester. He highlights the growing recognition of lawn bowls in India since the 2022 Games and expresses hope for continued success. Sonowal also praises the Indian women's team for their advancement in the tournament. As he makes his Commonwealth debut at 43, Sonowal aims to inspire more athletes to take up the sport and compete internationally. Read on to discover more about his journey and aspirations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 23, 2026, 23:33 IST

Sonowal's Remarkable Victory

Glasgow [Scotland], July 23: Indian lawn bowls athlete Putul Sonowal is optimistic about India's chances at the Commonwealth Games 2026 following his impressive win against world champion Ryan Bester in the men's singles sectional play. He noted that the sport has gained significant visibility in India since the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

In an interview, Sonowal expressed his excitement about defeating Bester, acknowledging the challenge posed by the Canadian champion. "This match was crucial for me; winning against a world champion is no small feat. I gave it my all," he stated.

He also commended the Indian women's lawn bowls team for their strong performance, which saw them advance to the next round after a victory over Malta.

"Our women players performed excellently and progressed after defeating Malta," he remarked.

Sonowal reflected on India's achievements at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where the nation secured gold and silver medals in both the women's and men's fours events.

"In 2022, we clinched gold and silver in the women's and men's fours. Before that, lawn bowls was relatively unknown in India; few were aware of the sport," he explained.

He believes that the success at the Birmingham Games has led to increased interest in lawn bowls in India, and he is hopeful for another medal-winning performance in the current edition.

"Since the Commonwealth Games, lawn bowls has gained considerable attention in India, and I am optimistic that we will secure medals this time as well," he added.

Sonowal expressed his desire for the growing popularity of lawn bowls to inspire more Indian athletes to pursue the sport and compete in major international events.

"Lawn bowls in India should progress, and our players should have opportunities to excel in upcoming tournaments," he concluded.

Making his Commonwealth Games debut at 43, Sonowal triumphed in a tie-breaker against Bester after the two split the first two sets at the Scottish Event Campus. The reigning Asian champion won the first set 5-4 but lost the second 7-3 in his initial match of Section D, which features six competitors. The winners of each of the four sections (A to D) will advance to the semi-finals.