Indian Badminton Team Receives Major Support for Thomas and Uber Cup Finals

Financial and Logistical Backing from SAI

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has provided substantial logistical and financial assistance exceeding Rs 1.45 crore for the Indian badminton squad's participation in the upcoming Thomas and Uber Cup Finals in Horsens, Denmark, set to take place from April 24 to May 3.

A contingent of 34 members, which includes 20 players, five coaches, and nine support staff, has departed for Denmark to compete in these prestigious team championships. Notable athletes such as PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, and the doubles team of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, along with promising newcomers, will represent both the men's and women's teams. The lineup also features several athletes from the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).

India's Group Stage Draw and Previous Achievements

In the Thomas Cup, the Indian men's team is grouped with Canada, Australia, and China, while the women's team faces Denmark, Ukraine, and China in the Uber Cup. India made history by clinching the Thomas Cup in 2022, defeating Indonesia in the final, marking its first title and establishing the nation as a formidable presence in men's team badminton.

Details of the Support Package

The Rs 1.45 crore support package, approved under TOPS, encompasses various expenses including airfare, accommodation, visa fees, accreditation, daily allowances, food allowances, insurance, and miscellaneous costs for all contingent members. Additionally, SAI has arranged a comprehensive support system featuring specialized coaches, physiotherapists, trainers, and masseurs accompanying the team.

Importance of the Upcoming Finals

The 2026 Thomas and Uber Cup Finals hold significant importance for Indian badminton, particularly as the sport will not be included in the 2026 Commonwealth Games. With India set to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, badminton is anticipated to return as a prominent event in the centenary edition.

Team Lineups

Thomas Cup 2026 Squad:

Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty, Kidambi Srikant, HS Prannoy, Kiran George, Satwik Sairaj, Chirag Shetty, Amsakarunan Hariharan, M R Arjun, Dhruv Kapila.

Uber Cup 2026 Squad:

PV Sindhu, Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma, Isharani Baruah, Devika Sihag, Gayatri Gopichand, Treesa Jolly, S Kavipriya, Simran Singhi, Tanisha Crasto.