About Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games
The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games marked a historic turning point for India, with the country producing moments of absolute brilliance in sports it already had a strong hold on, while also producing pioneering breakthroughs in non-traditional events. Despite the late exclusion of shooting, a discipline that traditionally accounted for a massive chunk of India's gold reserves, the Indian contingent finished a spectacular fourth in the overall medal standings, securing 61 medals, including 22 golds, 16 silvers, and 23 bronzes.
The story of 2022 was one of incredible resilience and versatility. India's weightlifters got the ball rolling early, led by weightlifter Mirabai Chanu’s record-breaking gold. The wrestling squad then staged a complete demolition of the field, with all 12 competing wrestlers returning with medals, including six golds from stars like Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia.
However, the defining legacy of Birmingham 2022 belonged to India's historic first-ever gold medal in Lawn Bowls, won by the Women's Fours team. The event saw India turn a new leaf in its history in the competition. Avinash Sable smashed the long-standing Kenyan monopoly in the 3000m steeplechase to secure a historic silver, while Eldhose Paul led a spectacular 1-2 finish in the men's triple jump. Together with an unforgettable golden clean sweep in badminton singles and doubles, 2022 proved that sports in India has truly come far, leaving its cricketing shadows behind.