Ishroop Narang Wins Golden Score Thriller to Reach CWG Judo Quarterfinals

India's judo campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2026 witnessed mixed fortunes on Sunday as Ishroop Narang advanced to the women's 78kg quarterfinals, while Avtar Singh and Yash Ghangas bowed out in their opening knockout bouts.

The 19-year-old Punjab judoka displayed remarkable composure in a tense Round of 16 clash against Scotland's Nicole Wood. With neither athlete able to gain an advantage during the regulation four minutes and both receiving a shido penalty, the contest moved into the golden score period.

Ishroop finally broke the deadlock after one minute and 40 seconds of extra time, producing a decisive yuko to clinch victory after a hard-fought five minutes and 40 seconds. The determined performance kept India's medal hopes alive, with Ishroop now set to face England's Emma Reid in the quarterfinals.

The men's events, however, proved disappointing for India.

In the 100kg Round of 16, Avtar Singh suffered a defeat by ippon against Cyprus' Aristos Michael, ending his campaign at the first hurdle.

Meanwhile, Yash Ghangas also exited the men's +100kg competition after losing 0-1 to Wales' Joshua Whitehouse. Whitehouse secured a crucial yuko midway through the contest and successfully defended his lead until the end. Ghangas, who accumulated two shido penalties during the four-minute bout, was unable to mount a comeback.

With two early exits in the men's categories, India's hopes in judo now largely rest on Ishroop Narang, who will look to continue her impressive run and move a step closer to the medal rounds.