Raja Muthupandi wins silver in 65kg weightlifting at CWG 2026

Raja Muthupandi secured a silver medal in the men’s 65kg weightlifting category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, lifting a total of 286kg. This marks India’s fourth medal at the Games and its second in weightlifting so far. The 26-year-old lifted 126kg in snatch and 160kg in clean and jerk to finish second behind Malaysia’s Aznil Bidin, who set a Games record with a total lift of 299kg. Papua New Guinea’s Morea Baru claimed bronze with 282kg.

A Comeback Story Marked by Resilience

Muthupandi’s achievement is particularly significant given his challenging journey to the podium. After suffering a ligament tear in his right elbow during the 2019 Commonwealth Championship, he underwent surgery and faced a prolonged recovery period. He returned to competitive weightlifting at the 2021 National Championship, where he finished third, narrowly missing qualification for CWG 2022.

This year, Muthupandi earned his spot in Glasgow by winning the national title and setting a new national record. His performance in the competition was not without drama, he failed his first snatch attempt at 126kg but succeeded on the second try. He then attempted 129kg but could not complete the lift. In the clean and jerk, he initially failed at 158kg but managed to lift 160kg on his second attempt. A bold attempt at a Games record of 170kg ended unsuccessfully when he dropped the weight before completing the clean action.

India’s Weightlifting Success Continues

Muthupandi’s silver is India’s third weightlifting medal at CWG 2026. Earlier in the day, Rishikanta Singh also won silver in the men’s 60kg category. Later, Mirabai Chanu made history by securing her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold in the women’s 48kg event.

India’s strong showing in weightlifting underscores the sport’s significance in the country’s medal tally at the Games. Muthupandi’s silver not only adds to this growing legacy but also highlights the resilience and determination of Indian athletes on the international stage.

Source: Indian Express