Mohammed Basil Morssinganakth Wins Silver at Commonwealth Games, Dedicates Medal to Family

Historic Achievement for Indian Para-Sprinter

Glasgow [Scotland], July 30: Mohammed Basil Morssinganakth, an Indian para-sprinter, celebrated a significant milestone by securing his first international medal—a silver in the men's T47 100m event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. This achievement contributed to India's remarkable one-two finish in Glasgow.

The 21-year-old athlete clocked an impressive time of 10.83 seconds, finishing just behind his fellow countryman Dilip Mahadu Gavit, who set a new Commonwealth Games record with a time of 10.71 seconds. England's Kevin Santos took home the bronze medal with a time of 10.85 seconds, marking India's first-ever 1-2 finish in a single event at these Games.

Reflecting on his journey, an emotional Basil expressed gratitude towards his family and coach, acknowledging the hardships they faced. He stated, “This is my first international medal, and I am overjoyed. My family, including my father, mother, and two brothers, has been incredibly supportive. They have endured many challenges because of me, especially since both my brothers are also disabled. This medal is dedicated to them and my coach.”

Originating from Veliyancode in Kerala's Malappuram district, Basil was born without his right arm and competes in the T47 classification, which includes athletes with unilateral upper limb impairments or limb absence.

This silver medal signifies a pivotal moment in Basil's career, showcasing his rise in the international para-athletics scene. His performance, alongside Gavit's gold, created one of the most memorable highlights of the Games for India.

Gavit's impressive finish in the final stages of the race not only secured him gold but also set a new Commonwealth Games record. Meanwhile, Basil successfully defended his position against a late challenge from Santos, ensuring India achieved a historic podium sweep in the para athletics sprint event.

These two medals have bolstered India's overall performance in Glasgow, bringing the nation's total to 15 medals by the end of Day 7, which includes three gold, nine silver, and three bronze medals.

Notable Indian medallists thus far include Mirabai Chanu (gold in weightlifting), Sharmila Dhankar (gold in women's shot put F57), Dilip Mahadu Gavit (gold in men's T47 100m), and Mohammed Basil Morssinganakth (silver in men's T47 100m), among others.