Game, set, maths: India 10 short of record haul at the Commonwealth Games

Turning a blind eye to the off-field controversies that are still dogging the Commonwealth Games, the Indian contingent has managed to pull off the stupendous feat of almost reaching its previous Games tally of 22 gold medals just midway into the event.

On Friday, India continued to dominate in wrestling and shooting, extending its gold run to 20. Overall, India has 48 medals, just two short of 50 won in Melbourne 2006. With six days left in the competition, there are many more medals to be grabbed. The country’s Games record was set in Manchester eight years ago with 30 gold medals. The hosts also retain their creditable second position in the medal tally.

Friday’s surge was led by shooters and wrestlers, who have 17 gold medals between them. Refreshingly, three women wrestlers joined the party, keeping India ahead of strong contenders England and Canada. Alka Tomar and Anita grabbed gold, stealing some of the limelight of the all-conquering shooters. The freestyle exponents fought their way in superb fashion to claim the 59 and 67 kg category honours. On Thursday, grappler Geeta Phogat had clinched a gold.

In shooting, Gagan Narang combined well with Imran Hasan Khan to win the 50m rifle 3 position pairs gold, while Vijay Kumar annexed the 25m rapid fire pistol gold.