Fazel Atrachali to Lead Iran's Kabaddi Team at Asian Games 2026
Iran's Kabaddi Team for Asian Games 2026 Announced
New Delhi, August 11: The Iranian men's kabaddi team for the upcoming Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, will be spearheaded by seasoned defender Fazel Atrachali and versatile player Mohammadreza Shadloui.
Atrachali, aged 34, will take on the role of captain for his fifth appearance at the Asian Games. He boasts an impressive record, having secured four medals in previous editions, including a gold medal in Jakarta 2018 and silver medals in Guangzhou 2010, Incheon 2014, and Hangzhou 2023, as reported by Olympics.com.
Recognized as the all-time leading defender in the Pro Kabaddi League, Atrachali was honored as the league's Most Valuable Player last year, contributing significantly to Dabang Delhi K.C.'s championship victory.
Shadloui will add depth and skill to the Iranian lineup. 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 squad is Mohammad Esmail Nabibakhsh, who brings additional experience.
Seven players from the current 12-member squad were part of the team that clinched silver at the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023. Alongside Atrachali, Shadloui, and Nabibakhsh, returning players include Reza Mirbagheri, Alireza Mirzaeian, Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh, and Amirhossein Bastami.
In the final at Hangzhou 2023, Iran finished as runners-up, narrowly losing to India with a score of 33-29. Previously, they had triumphed over India in the semi-finals during Jakarta 2018, ultimately winning the gold medal.
For the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 event, Iran has been placed in Group B, competing against Pakistan, Malaysia, Nepal, and Thailand. Defending champions India will be in Group A alongside Bangladesh, Republic of Korea, Chinese Taipei, and the host nation, Japan.
The men's kabaddi matches are scheduled to take place from September 21 to 26 at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium, coinciding with the Asian Games from September 19 to October 4.
The announcement for Iran's women's kabaddi team is still pending.
Iran men's kabaddi squad: 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, Ali Eyvozi.