India's Medal Contenders for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

As the Commonwealth Games 2026 approach, India faces a unique challenge with several traditional sports removed from the roster. Despite this, the nation fields a focused team of 125 athletes, aiming for success in athletics, weightlifting, boxing, and judo. Key contenders include Olympic champions Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu, alongside rising stars like Pooja Singh and seasoned competitors like Priyanka Goswami. This article highlights ten athletes to watch as they strive for glory in Glasgow.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 22, 2026, 23:09 IST

Overview of the Commonwealth Games 2026

The 2026 Commonwealth Games are set to commence in Glasgow on July 23 (Thursday). Historically, India has been a strong contender for medals in these Games. However, this year presents unique challenges as several traditional sports, including wrestling, badminton, table tennis, hockey, and cricket, have been excluded. Consequently, India will be represented by a more streamlined team of 125 athletes. With fewer events available, the stakes are higher, and each performance will significantly influence India's overall medal tally. Despite the reduced team size, India remains optimistic about its chances in athletics, weightlifting, boxing, and judo. Here are ten key athletes to watch for potential medal wins in Glasgow.

Top Medal Prospects

Neeraj Chopra

Discipline: Athletics (Javelin Throw)

Neeraj Chopra returns to the Commonwealth Games after missing the 2022 edition due to injury. As an Olympic and World champion, he is a top contender for gold, known for his ability to perform under pressure.

Mirabai Chanu

Discipline: Weightlifting (49kg)

The reigning queen of Indian weightlifting, Mirabai Chanu, aims to secure another Commonwealth gold to add to her titles from 2018 and 2022. Her consistent performance and technical prowess make her a strong medal candidate.

Lovlina Borgohain

Discipline: Boxing (75kg)

As an Olympic bronze medalist and former World Champion, Lovlina brings extensive experience to the boxing ring. She aims to clinch a Commonwealth gold, a title that has eluded her thus far.

Murali Sreeshankar

Discipline: Athletics (Long Jump)

With a personal best of 8.41m set in 2023, Murali Sreeshankar won silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and is determined to upgrade that to gold this time around.

Nikhat Zareen

Discipline: Boxing (50kg)

A multiple-time world champion, Nikhat Zareen enters the Games as the defending Commonwealth champion, having won gold in Birmingham 2022. She is a strong contender for another medal.

Tulika Maan

Discipline: Judo (+78kg)

With wrestling not featured in 2026, Tulika Maan will lead India's judo efforts, having previously secured a silver medal in the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Parul Chaudhary

Discipline: Athletics (3000m Steeplechase / 5000m)

Parul recently set a national record in the 5000m and aims to make a significant impact in Glasgow, having already won gold and silver at the 2023 Asian Games.

Tejaswin Shankar

Discipline: Athletics (Decathlon / High Jump)

Tejaswin made history by winning India's first Commonwealth Games medal in high jump in 2022. Competing in both high jump and decathlon, he is a versatile athlete to watch.

Pooja Singh

Discipline: Athletics (High Jump)

The young talent Pooja Singh recently broke a long-standing national record with a jump of 1.93m, making her a promising dark horse for a medal.

Priyanka Goswami

Discipline: Athletics (10,000m Race Walk)

A seasoned competitor, Priyanka holds a silver medal from the 2022 Commonwealth Games and is a strong contender in her event.