In a big boost for Indian athletics, Muhammad Anas came agonisingly close to winning a medal at the 400m run but settled for a credible fourth place finish with national record-breaking performance at Commonwealth Games, here today.
Anas clocked 45.31, marginally improving his own record of 45.32 which he set at the Indian Grand Prix in New Delhi last year.
It was first time that an Indian was competing in a final of 400m run at CWG since legendary Milkha Singh competed in 1958.
However, Anas' effort was not enough for a medal, falling short by just 0.2 seconds, finishing behind winner Isaac Makwala (44.35), Baboloki Thebe (45.09) and Javon Francis (45.11).
In another stunning show, Hima Das qualified for the final of the women 400m with a a personal best of 51.53.
She had finished third in her semifinal, shaving off 0.44 off her previous personal best, but eventually made the cut as seventh fastest among eight finalists.
Das had stunned everyone by qualifying for the CWG and continued to spring surprise with her effort.
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