Fazel Atrachali and Mohammadreza Shadloui to Lead Iran's Kabaddi Team at Asian Games 2026

Iran's kabaddi team for the 2026 Asian Games will be led by veteran defender Fazel Atrachali and all-rounder Mohammadreza Shadloui. Atrachali, a seasoned player with multiple medals, aims for success in his fifth Asian Games. The squad features seven returning members from the previous Asian Games, where they secured a silver medal. Iran is grouped with Pakistan, Malaysia, Nepal, and Thailand, while the tournament is set to take place from September 21 to 26. Stay tuned for updates on the women's kabaddi team announcement.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 11, 2026, 21:31 IST

Atrachali and Shadloui at the Helm for Iran's Kabaddi Squad

Iran's men's kabaddi team for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, will be spearheaded by seasoned defender Fazel Atrachali and versatile player Mohammadreza Shadloui. Atrachali, aged 34, will serve as the captain, marking his fifth appearance at the Asian Games. He boasts an impressive record of four medals, including a gold from Jakarta 2018 and silver medals from Guangzhou 2010, Incheon 2014, and Hangzhou 2023, as reported by Olympics.com. Additionally, Atrachali holds the title of the all-time leading defender in the Pro Kabaddi League and was honored as the league's Most Valuable Player last year, contributing to Dabang Delhi K.C.'s championship victory.

Shadloui Adds Experience and Skill

Shadloui will enhance the team's experience and offensive capabilities. He ranks fifth on the all-time tackle-points leaderboard in the PKL and led the Gujarat Giants as captain last season. Another key player in the lineup is Mohammad Esmail Nabibakhsh, who also brings significant experience.

Returning Veterans from Hangzhou 2023

The squad includes seven players who previously competed in the Hangzhou 2023 Asian Games, where they secured a silver medal. Alongside Atrachali, Shadloui, and Nabibakhsh, the returning members are Reza Mirbagheri, Alireza Mirzaeian, Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh, and Amirhossein Bastami.

Iran's Journey in Recent Competitions

In the Hangzhou 2023 finals, Iran finished as runners-up after a close match against India, losing 33-29. Notably, Iran had previously triumphed over India in the semi-finals during the Jakarta 2018 Games before clinching the gold medal.

Tournament Structure and Group Draw

For the 2026 Asian Games, Iran has been placed in Group B, competing against Pakistan, Malaysia, Nepal, and Thailand. Defending champions India are in Group A, alongside Bangladesh, the Republic of Korea, Chinese Taipei, and the host nation, Japan. The men's kabaddi events are scheduled from September 21 to 26 at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium, with the overall Asian Games taking place from September 19 to October 4. The announcement for Iran's women's kabaddi team is still pending.

Iran's Men's Kabaddi Team Roster

The final roster includes: Fazel Atrachali (captain), Mohammadreza Shadloui, Reza Mirbagheri, Alireza Mirzaeian, Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh, Mohammad Esmail Nabibakhsh, Ali Samadi, Amirhossein Bastami, Amirhossein Ejlali, Heider Ekrami, Omid Khojasteh, and Ali Eyvozi.