The Commonwealth Games 2022 is all set to start on 28th July. With a strong Indian contingent, millions have their eyes set on the event and expect a good show. Wrestling is one of India’s strongest sports and has brought many medals for the country in the past and hence, expectations from the sport are high at CWG 2022.
In a recent video posted by DD India, Bajrang Punia, India’s ace wrestler could be seen lifting weights in the gym ahead of the Commonwealth Games. The video captain read, “Watch Bajrang Punia training in Michigan, the USA for preparation of Commonwealth Games 2022.”
Watch l Bajrang Punia training in Michigan, USA for the preparation of Commonwealth Games 2022 pic.twitter.com/rZ4lyyxi07
— DD India (@DDIndialive) July 25, 2022
Born into a poor family who did not have money for traditional sports, Punia was encouraged by his father to take up wrestling. He was enrolled in a local mud wrestling school wherein he learned the first ropes of the game. His love for the sport later allowed him to drop everything and focus only on wrestling. His total dedication to wrestling bore fruit and Punia won a hoard of medals for India with the biggest being Bronze at the 2020 Olympics. He has also won Gold at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and is looking to emulate the success of the past and win gold again. His latest medal has been silver at the Asian Championship in Ulan Bator.
Additionally, Punia has also been awarded Padma Shri for his exceptional contribution to Wrestling. The 28-year-old is going into the 2022 Commonwealth Games with massive confidence and is the favourite to win in the 65kg.
India begins its challenge in the Commonwealth Games on July 29th with the Indian Cricket team playing their first match in the prestigious event against Australia. This is the only second time that cricket is being included in the distinguished event.
The first wrestling events are scheduled for 5th August when Punia will finally get a chance to bring in his second Commonwealth Gold for the country. India also has a strong contingent in weight lifting, boxing and badminton.
