The trio knocked down 3,726 pins to defeat Penang by 15 pins after Megat Zaqrul Haiqal, ‘Aqil Faizal, and Hariz Adlan Azman rolled down 3,711 pins in Sukma 2024.

Perak, comprising Ammar Isyraf Mohammad, Zi Jun Wooi, and Yew Jin Chong, took bronze with 3,681 pinfalls.

Izz Naqiuddin Putera, who is in the national team’s back-up squad, said they never expected to defeat the other states, who gave them a run for their money.

“Negeri Sembilan last won gold in 2010 through the mixed doubles event. Feel happy and never thought all our hard work, determination and desire would bring us success,” he said.

Johor-born Carl Zharfan Aisy, meanwhile, said he has no regrets choosing to register to play for Negeri Sembilan eight years ago after his maiden Sukma appearance ended with a gold medal.

Meanwhile, the women’s trios event saw the home trio of Lavinia Kho, Nur Hazirah Ramli, and Asya Dania Azree rolling down 3,591 pins for the gold medal as Selangor (3,494 pinfalls) took silver, and Kedah (3,459 pinfalls) the bronze.

Selangor were represented by Nur Irdina Batrisyia, Nur Nais Falilnesa, and Afiqah Kamilia Ali while Kedah lined up with Nur Anis Anisya, Farissa Najihah, and Nurul Anis Nabila.