New Indian Wrestling Coach Outlines Strategy for Asian Games 2026

Strategic Planning for Asiad Success

Emzarios Bentinidis, the newly appointed head coach of the Indian wrestling team, is focused on developing a detailed masterplan aimed at achieving success at the 2026 Asian Games. Following the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) selection trials, he stressed the necessity of tailored training programs and individualized strategies for each athlete. The national program is set to transition towards a more professional and cohesive management system, ensuring that every wrestler is prepared to perform at their peak during the continental competition.

Individualized Training Approaches

During his visit to the men's selection trials at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Centre in Lucknow, Bentinidis, affectionately known as Shako, articulated the need for personalized training regimens. He stated, "Each wrestler has unique requirements, and a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective. Some may need to enhance their technical skills, while others might focus on physical conditioning or tactical strategies on the mat. My immediate goal is to engage with the wrestlers, assess their specific needs, and develop a clear plan for each athlete to excel at significant events like the Asian Games."

Outstanding Performances at Selection Trials

India's top wrestlers showcased their skills during the selection trials, securing their spots for the upcoming Asian Games. In the freestyle category, World No. 1 Sujeet Kalkal achieved a tactical 2-0 victory to qualify in the 65kg division. Olympic bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat also excelled, winning the 57kg final with an impressive 11-1 score. Other notable freestyle competitors include Asian Games silver medalist Deepak Punia (97kg), Sagar Jaglan (74kg), Mukul Dahiya (86kg), and Rajat Ruhal (125kg), all of whom triumphed in their respective categories.

Strong Contingent for Asian Games

The Greco-Roman and women's teams also demonstrated remarkable strength and readiness. Sunil Kumar, a bronze medalist from the 2023 Asian Games, secured his 87kg position with a 3-1 victory. The Greco-Roman team includes Sumit Dalal (60kg), Deepak (67kg), Aman (77kg), Nitesh Kumar (97kg), and Deepanshu (130kg). Meanwhile, the women's team, finalized at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, will feature two-time World Championships bronze medalist Antim Panghal (53kg), along with Nisha Dahiya (68kg), Mansi Ahlawat (62kg), Manisha Bhanwala (57kg), Dipanshi (50kg), and Priya Malik (72kg), forming a formidable squad ready to make an impact in Aichi-Nagoya.

Confirmed Indian Wrestling Team for Asian Games 2026

Women: Antim Panghal (53kg), Nisha Dahiya (68kg), Mansi Ahlawat (62kg), Manisha Bhanwala (57kg), Dipanshi (50kg), Priya Malik (72kg)

Men's Freestyle: Aman Sehrawat (57kg), Sujeet Kalkal (65kg), Sagar Jaglan (74kg), Mukul Dahiya (86kg), Deepak Punia (97kg), Rajat Ruhal (125kg)

Greco-Roman: Sumit Dalal (60kg), Deepak (67kg), Aman (77kg), Sunil Kumar (87kg), Nitesh Kumar (97kg), Deepanshu (130kg).