Indian Kabaddi Team Aims for Gold at 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games

Pride and Responsibility for the Indian Kabaddi Team

As the Indian Kabaddi team prepares to represent the nation at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, star raider and Arjuna Awardee Pawan Sehrawat expresses that wearing the India jersey is a source of immense pride and responsibility. The team is focused on defending their title in both men's and women's categories, with the event commencing on September 19.

Sehrawat shared his thoughts on the significance of representing India at such a prestigious multi-sport event, stating, "I feel incredibly proud to be among the 12 selected from a vast population to represent our country... Wearing the Indian jersey carries a responsibility, as we represent the hopes of the entire nation, and we aim to deliver our best for India."

Kabaddi's Legacy at the Asian Games

Kabaddi has a rich history at the Asian Games, having secured a total of 11 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze medal across both men's and women's competitions. In their quest for another gold, the 12-member squad has been training at the SAI sports training center in Gandhinagar from September 5 to 15.

Expectation Fuels Motivation

Sehrawat, who holds the record for the most raid points in a Pro Kabaddi League match with 39, believes that the expectation of winning gold serves as motivation rather than pressure. He remarked, "When you expect something from someone who deserves it, you anticipate gold from Kabaddi. This expectation transforms into motivation, making it easier for us to perform."

Confidence in Team Dynamics

Having spent significant time together in training camps, Sehrawat is optimistic about the team's cohesion. He stated, "The team is very confident. We have practiced extensively together. The 12 selected players form a strong combination, and we trust each other. Our primary goal is gold, which unites us as a team."

Kabaddi Schedule at the 2026 Asian Games

The Kabaddi events at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games will commence on September 21, 2026, with the finals scheduled for September 26, 2026.

Meet the Indian Kabaddi Team for 2026

The Indian Kabaddi Team for the 2026 Asian Games includes: Sunil Kumar (captain), Pawan Sehrawat, Ankit Jaglan, Aslam Inamdar, Ashu Malik, Ayan Lohchab, Devank Dalal, Arjun Deshwal, Jaideep Dahiya, Rahul Sethpal, Gaurav Khatri, and Sumit Sangwan.