Odisha is going to host first national youth Lawn Bowls event this October

Odisha State Bowling Association is gearing up to organize a national-level Lawn Bowls championship from October 23 to 26 at Balangir. This four-day tournament will take place at the recently constructed R.N. Singh Deo International Lawn Bowls Court. It marks a significant milestone for the region. The event features the first National Under-18 and the sixth National Under-25 competitions for both boys and girls. Organizers expect around 250 players and officials representing 18 different states to attend this major gathering. Working closely with the Bowling Federation of India, the state Sports and Youth Services Department is providing full operational support to ensure a smooth tournament. Odisha has rapidly transformed into India's premier sporting hub over the last decade, consistently backing lesser-known disciplines to produce top-tier talent.

State association officials confirmed a preparatory camp is currently underway to finalize the host team. Players have been training at the Balangir court since October 1, and this camp will run until October 20. Selectors will pick the final squad immediately after the camp concludes, with plans to field two distinct state teams. Local athletes have achieved impressive results over the last few years despite Lawn Bowls being a relatively new sport in the region. State players secured four medals, including three bronze and one silver, during the last two National Games. Last year, the team won three bronze medals at the National Under-25 Championship in New Delhi.

Following that performance, Roshni Sahu and Rajeshwari Seth joined the Asian camp. Rajeshwari went on to represent India at the Asian Lawn Bowls Championship, securing her spot as the first international player from the state. This year, Roshni will compete in the Under-18 division while Rajeshwari joins the Under-25 category alongside teammate Padmasini Patel. State officials hold high hopes for multiple medals on home soil.