Shaik Abdul Hameed, a trailblazer in Indian ten-pin bowling, has achieved yet another milestone by being appointed as the Chairman of the Commonwealth Union Tenpin Bowling Network, making him the first Indian to hold this prestigious position. Known for his unmatched dedication to the sport, Hameed has been instrumental in putting Indian ten-pin bowling on the global map. His leadership role is set to drive the sport forward, not only in India but across the Commonwealth nations.
Ten-pin bowling is an exciting sport that demands equal levels of talent, strategy, and accuracy. Thousands of people play this game every day all around the world. The game involves rolling a heavy ball down a wooden or synthetic lane and hitting 10 pins that are set in a triangle at the far end.
Although the sport appears easy at first, players must possess technique, consistency, and mental focus to succeed. Ten-pin bowling has gained popularity as a recreational sport, providing excitement and companionship both on and off the lanes, whether for competitive play or casual fun.
Shaik Abdul Hameed, took a different approach and elevated the exhilarating game of ten-pin bowling from a recreational pastime to a serious endeavor. This ten-pin bowling sensation, who has become well-known through hard work and talent, became a champion who has continuously competed at the greatest level in the sport. He has enthralled spectators and rivals with his amazing accuracy, skill, and spirit of competition.
Shaik Abdul Hameed made history in 2014 by becoming the first Indian to win the Thailand Tour Title at the Asian Bowling Federation (ABF) tournament. Debutant Shaik Abdul Hameed captured his first-ever Men’s title at the prestigious Blu-O Rhythm & Bowl Ratchayothin. In an electrifying Men’s final, Shaik faced off against 2014 ABF Tour Kuwait champion Mahmood Al Attar of the UAE. Both contenders had a shaky start with open frames in the second, but Shaik quickly found his rhythm, rolling three consecutive strikes to gain a narrow lead. Mahmood responded with a turkey in the fifth and sixth frames, keeping the match close. However, Shaik’s unwavering focus saw him unleash another string of strikes from the seventh frame, while Mahmood stumbled with a costly 6-pin split. Seizing the moment, Shaik struck out in dominant fashion, claiming a decisive 242-183 victory and delivering India its first-ever ABF Tour title.
Shaik triumphantly returned to the scene after missing out on major international competitions since the 2002 Commonwealth Championships, where he won silver in the all-events category and gold in both singles and masters. With a close victory of 231-218 over Joshua Chow, the seasoned champion advanced to the finals in the first-ever all-lefty semi-final.
Shaik Abdul Hameed also showcased the courage to demand recognition of his achievements in the sport of ten-pin bowling. As the first Indian to win international gold and silver medals in the game, he expressed his determination to be considered for the prestigious Arjuna Award. Shaik then approached the Delhi High Court, seeking a directive to the government to nominate him for the award. “I’ve dedicated years to ten-pin bowling, representing India with pride on the global stage,” he shared with quiet resolve.
His lawyer, Vasundhara Pathak Masoodi, emphasized his consistent excellence in both national and international competitions, which Shaik believes should warrant recognition for the Arjuna Award. Despite his remarkable performances, including his historic wins at the 2002 Commonwealth Championships in Scotland, where he secured gold in Singles and Masters, and silver in All Events, Shaik feels overlooked by the sporting fraternity. “It’s not just about me,” he says. “It’s about raising the profile of ten-pin bowling in India.”
His passion for the sport extends beyond personal accolades. Shaik reminisced about being honored by the Andhra Pradesh government and receiving special recognition alongside Lt. Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. Yet, his focus remains on the future. “I want this award to highlight the potential of the sport and inspire more Indian athletes to pursue bowling with the same determination,” Shaik said.
Shaik Abdul Hameed is poised to take on a new and pivotal role as Chairman of the Commonwealth Union Tenpin Bowling Network, where he is committed to advancing the sport across Commonwealth nations. In this leadership position, Shaik plans to promote greater participation by nurturing young talent and expanding grassroots programs, ensuring that the next generation of bowlers is equipped with the skills and opportunities to thrive.
He also aims to enhance collaboration among Commonwealth countries, fostering stronger ties between national bowling federations. By organizing international tournaments, workshops, and training camps, Shaik seeks to create a thriving competitive environment that encourages skill development and elevates the standard of ten-pin bowling throughout the region. His vision includes advocating for better infrastructure, securing funding, and increasing media visibility for the sport, ultimately bringing ten-pin bowling into the spotlight and encouraging a broader fan base.
