Para bowlers keep unbeaten record

The New Zealand bowlers got better as the match progressed, winning 6-3, 10-2, and have now won all four of their matches and head their group.

They're assured of a semi-final spot and say they aren't too concerned about which team they meet at that stage. 'We all know each other,' O'Connell said. 'Sometimes it just depends on the day.'

Blackbourn, 32 and based in Hamilton, and O'Connell, 67 and just settled in Christchurch after a move from Invercargill, are an unlikely combination. However, they've gelled well in the three years they've been playing as a team.

'We first played together in a tournament on the Gold Coast in 2023,' O'Connell said. 'We introduced ourselves at the airport!'

Preparation for a major event can sometimes be tricky, because most of it is done on their own. 'We did get together for one spell when I went up to Hamilton and [national coach] Mike Kernaghan had a look at us and gave us some advice,' said O'Connell. 'We talk to each other a lot on the phone.'

An extra challenge this time is that the Commonwealth Games matches are being played on carpet rather than outdoors.

'I played a tournament on carpet last year in Malaysia, so I've had a bit of experience on it,' said Blackbourn. O'Connell is new to international bowls indoors.

Judging by their results the adjustment hasn't been too difficult. 'There's still room for improvement,' said O'Connell. 'Luckily if I don't get it right, Teri's there to help out.'

Though they're serious about their bowls, the New Zealanders clearly have a lot of fun while they're playing. 'We enjoy it and it helps remove any stress,' said Blackbourn.