Murali Sreeshankar wins silver in thrilling long jump final, missing out on gold by 6cm

Glasgow: India’s Murali Sreeshankar (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary)

Indian Murali Srisankar At the 2026 Commonwealth Games, he won the men’s long jump silver medal with a best time of 8.09m in Thursday’s fiery final. The Indian star led the first three rounds but ultimately took silver after Jamaica’s former world champion Tajai Gayle surged to 8.15m in the fourth round. Scotland’s Stephen Mackenzie topped the podium with a best time of 8.08m, just one centimeter behind Sreeshankar. The medal was another major success for India in athletics in Glasgow.

Sreeshankar takes an early lead before Gayle strikes

Sreeshankar got off to a great start in the final with a brilliant 8.09m which kept him at the top of the standings after the first three rounds. Scotland’s McKenzie stayed within touching distance with 8.08m, while Gayle finished third on the countback despite being within striking distance of the Scot. Fellow Indian Lokesh was also in contention with a time of 7.97m and was fourth midway through the race.

Gayle completes championship jump

The fourth round took a dramatic turn as Gayle took the lead with a brilliant jump of 8.15m. Srishankar responded with what looked like a huge leap but was narrowly denied as the attempt was ruled a foul. His father and coach Murali later said the jump would easily clear 8.20m, underlining how close the Indian was to regaining the lead.

Final round ends India’s gold medal hopes

Entering the sixth and final round, Srishankar still had a chance to surpass Gayle. Scotland’s McKenzie, who jumped ahead of the Indians, achieved a best of 8.08m with a clearance of 8.06m in his final attempt to claim the bronze medal.Sreeshankar’s final jump was 7.97m, meaning his opening jump of 8.09m remains his best jump of the competition. Gayle, who already had the gold medal, failed to advance in his final attempt but easily retained the title.

Lokesh impresses on debut at Commonwealth Games

India’s second finalist Lokesh made an encouraging debut at the Commonwealth Games with a fifth place finish. His best time was 7.97m in the opening round, but he was unable to improve in his remaining attempts.

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