Pawan Sehrawat omitted from India starting seven for Asian Games 2026 men's kabaddi final
Pawan Sehrawat did not start for India in the men's kabaddi final against Iran at the Asian Games 2026 on September 26, 2026, a decision that has drawn questions from fans and experts.
The Asian Games, held every four years, award the gold medal to the winner of the men’s kabaddi final. India entered the 2026 finals as the previous champions after winning both the men’s and women’s events at the 2022 Asian Games, with Pawan Sehrawat leading the men’s team and Ritu Negi leading the women’s team in 2022. In 2026 the Indian women’s side, led by Pushpa Rana, have already secured gold by defeating Iran, while the men’s gold-medal match between India and Iran is about to start.
Team management cited form and combination as the reasons behind Pawan’s absence from the starting seven, according to the match preview. The article notes Pawan has not produced his best performances in this tournament, whereas other raiders have performed well enough to warrant starting roles.
Arjun Deshwal, Devank Dalal and Ayan Lohchab were selected as India’s starting raiders for the final; Pawan was named among the substitutes. The report states the coaching staff intend to bring him on from the bench if they judge his involvement necessary as the match unfolds.
Supporters are being asked to back the selected raiders to cover for Pawan’s non-inclusion in the starting lineup, with the expectation that the bench option remains available. The piece reiterates that Pawan will be used as a substitute when the team feels his presence is required during the game.
The preview recalls that Pawan produced a decisive contribution in a crunch situation in the final of the previous Asian Games, and says that although he is not at his best in this tournament he is considered dependable in important moments. It adds that, if called upon, Pawan will aim to make an impact and help India defend their Asian Games title.
The men’s gold-medal match between India and Iran at the Asian Games 2026 is about to begin; whether Pawan is introduced from the bench will be decided during the contest and could influence India’s attempt to retain the title.
