Johannesburg, Dec 18: Indian star Sushil Kumar made his return to international wrestling a memorable one, by outclassing Akash Khullar of New Zealand in the final of the men’s 74-kilogram freestyle category — to clinch gold at the Commonwealth Wrestling Championship here on Sunday.

Sushil gave his opponent virtually no chance in the title clash, carving out an easy 6-0 victory.

The double Olympic medallist Sushil thus clinched his fifth title at the Commonwealth level.

“It’s a very proud and emotional moment for me as I have returned to the mat on international level after a gap of 3 years. I want to dedicate this Gold medal won in #Commonwealthwrestlingchampionship at #SouthAfrica to my guru and to my Nation. JaiHind,” Sushil wrote on his official Twitter handle along with a photo of the national flag.

The emerging Indian star Parveen Rana got the bronze in the 74kg category as he beat Johannes Petrus Botha of South Africa in the play-off for the third place.

Sushil started his campaign with an easy 8-0 win over Botha.

In the second round, Sushil overpowered Jasmit Singh Phulka of Canada 9-1, before defeating Rana 5-4 in a thrilling contest.