India’s skilled lawn bowls team of Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki Singh continued their winning streak at the Commonwealth Games, narrowly defeating Tonga in a close women’s pairs match on Saturday. The Indian duo secured a 2-0 victory after triumphing in the tie-breaker, keeping their hopes of reaching the semifinals alive.
Earlier in the tournament, Rupa and Pinki had already led India to victories against Malta and South Africa.
The match began with Tonga’s Paris Baker and Milika Nathan taking an early lead, winning the first end to go ahead 1-0. Baker’s precise throws put India under pressure, although Rupa managed to complete all three of her bowls successfully.
In the second end, India quickly regained their composure. Strong teamwork between Rupa, who played lead, and skip Pinki helped them level the score. Rupa’s outstanding second bowl turned the tide in India’s favor, allowing them to close the first set 5-2.
Tonga fought back strongly in the second set, with Baker and Nathan taking control and jumping to a 6-0 lead after the first three ends. Despite Rupa and Pinki’s efforts for a comeback, the gap was too wide, and Tonga clinched the set 6-4, pushing the match into a tie-breaker.
In this decisive moment, Rupa and Pinki rose to the occasion. Rupa secured an early advantage for India, followed by Pinki, who kept her cool to finish the match, ensuring India remained unbeaten in the competition.
Rupa and Pinki, who were part of the Indian women’s team that won gold in the fours category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, have now won all three of their matches in Section B. England also boasts an unbeaten record with three wins, but they currently lead the group due to winning one additional set. The Indian pair’s next match is scheduled for Sunday, July 26.
