Top News

The Commonwealth Games 2026 has delivered countless memorable sporting moments, but one heartwarming story from Glasgow has captured fans' attention for all the right reasons. Meet Mohammed Ayub Qureshi, a 67-year-old Pakistan international who spends his days serving delicious curries at his popular restaurant in Scotland and his free time representing his country on the lawn bowls green.

The Commonwealth Games 2026 has delivered countless memorable sporting moments, but one heartwarming story from Glasgow has captured fans' attention for all the right reasons. Meet Mohammed Ayub Qureshi, a 67-year-old Pakistan international who spends his days serving delicious curries at his popular restaurant in Scotland and his free time representing his country on the lawn bowls green.

Qureshi, who owns the well-known Alishan Tandoori on Battlefield Road in Glasgow, swapped his chef's apron for Pakistan's national jersey to compete in the men's singles lawn bowls event at the Commonwealth Games. While he may be famous among locals for preparing flavour-packed Rogan Josh and sizzling tandoori dishes, the veteran athlete proved that his passion extends far beyond the kitchen.

Although his campaign ended with a defeat against Scotland's former world champion Jason Banks, it was what happened after the match that truly stole the spotlight. With a smile on his face, Qureshi warmly shook hands with his opponent and invited him to visit his restaurant for a meal.

Banks responded with a joke that instantly became one of the Games' most talked-about moments. "I haven't been this week. I was too scared before I played him in case he spiced up my food too much." The light-hearted exchange perfectly reflected the spirit of the Commonwealth Games, where friendship often shines brighter than the final score.