Johannesburg Dec 17 (IANS) Indian star Sushil Kumar made his return to international wrestling a memorable one outclassing Akash Khullar of New Zealand in the final of the men s 74 kilogram freestyle category to clinch gold at the Commonwealth Wrestling Championship here on Sunday.
Sushil gave his opponent virtually no chance in the title clash carving out an easy 6-0 victory. The double Olympic medallist thus clinched his fifth title at the Commonwealth level.
"It s a very proud and emotional moment for me as I have returned to the mat on international level after a gap of 3 years. I want to dedicate this Gold medal won in #Commonwealthwrestlingchampionship at #SouthAfrica to my guru and to my Nation. JaiHind " Sushil later wrote on his official Twitter handle along with a photo of the national flag.
Emerging Indian star Parveen Rana got the bronze in the 74kg category beating Johannes Petrus Botha of South Africa in the play-off for the third place.
Sushil started his campaign with an easy 8-0 win over Botha.
In the second round Sushil overpowered Jasmit Singh Phulka of Canada 9-1 before defeating Rana 5-4 in a thrilling contest.
--IANS
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