Glasgow curry restaurateur Mohammed Ayub Qureshi, known as “Chico”, is set to face the world’s best in lawn bowls at the Commonwealth Games. The 30-year veteran of Alishan Tandoori will swap his chef’s apron for Pakistan colours as he and teammate Maqsood Waseem Khan take on Australia’s Corey Wedlock and Aaron Teys.
From Curry House to Bowling Green
Qureshi’s journey into lawn bowls began nearly three decades ago through an unlikely connection: his bank manager at the curry house was an avid bowler. “I started playing bowls nearly 30 years ago,” he recalls. Since then, he has become a fixture in Glasgow’s bowls community while running his beloved restaurant.
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Despite balancing a demanding culinary career, Qureshi has represented Pakistan internationally, practicing on Scottish greens and flying in for tournaments. His teammate Khan, based in Pakistan, trains in Faisalabad and Lahore. “We make it work,” Khan says.
Australia’s Lawn Bowls Dominance
Standing across the rink will be Australia’s Corey Wedlock, a three-time world champion, and Aaron Teys. Australia leads the Commonwealth Games medal table with over 60 medals overall, making them formidable opponents. Qureshi remains undaunted: “I feel excited to be playing with the best. Hopefully we’ll learn something.”
| Player | Country | World Titles | Commonwealth Medals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corey Wedlock | Australia | 3 | Multiple |
| Aaron Teys | Australia | 0 | Multiple |
| Mohammed Ayub Qureshi | Pakistan | 0 | 0 (current Games) |
| Maqsood Waseem Khan | Pakistan | 0 | 0 |
The Spicy Invitation
Even if Australia wins, Qureshi has extended an open invitation to dinner at his restaurant. “If we lose, they are still invited, but I will probably give them a spicy vindaloo as revenge,” he jokes. This blend of sportsmanship and humor defines his approach to the game.
Key Takeaways
- Qureshi represents Pakistan in lawn bowls while running a Glasgow curry house.
- His opponent Corey Wedlock is a three-time world champion.
- The match is part of the Commonwealth Games men’s pairs competition.
- Qureshi uses his restaurant to blend sport and culture.
- He remains optimistic despite the odds.
FAQ
Who is Mohammed Ayub Qureshi?
He is a Glasgow curry restaurateur and lawn bowler representing Pakistan at the Commonwealth Games. He owns Alishan Tandoori and has been playing bowls for 30 years.
Who are Australia’s lawn bowls players in this match?
Australia is represented by Corey Wedlock, a three-time world champion, and Aaron Teys, both top competitors in the sport.
What is the significance of the dinner invitation?
Qureshi has invited the Australian team to dinner at his restaurant regardless of the outcome, promising a spicy vindaloo if they win—a lighthearted blend of sportsmanship and his culinary heritage.
As the match approaches, the lawn bowls community watches with curiosity. Can the curry chef and his teammate pull off an upset? Whether they win or lose, Qureshi’s story of dedication, culture, and humor inspires fans worldwide.