Predicted India men’s squad revealed ahead of Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 in Ahmedabad

India’s predicted men’s squad for the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 has been outlined ahead of the inaugural tournament at Veer Savarkar Stadium in Ahmedabad, which runs from October 23 to 31.

India arrive at the competition after claiming gold at the 2026 Asian Games, beating Iran 40–34 in the final to secure their ninth Asian Games kabaddi title. Players who featured in that gold-medal winning side have been rested to allow other contenders opportunities. The Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) has named a 17-member probable list for a preparatory practice camp, from which 12 players will be selected for the final squad.

The national coaching appointments for the men's team have been confirmed ahead of the Championship. J. Udaya Kumar has been named head coach, with Manjeet Chhillar and Rohit Kumar serving as assistant coaches. The coaching trio will assess performances during the practice camp as part of the selection process.

Team management may follow the same player composition used at the Asian Games, selecting six defenders, four raiders and two all-rounders, though selectors retain the option to alter that balance to suit tactical needs. Final choices will be informed by camp form, and players see the tournament as an opportunity to press for future selection. Strong showings in Ahmedabad could therefore influence subsequent squad decisions.

A predicted 12-player squad being discussed includes the following names. Raiders: Naveen Kumar, Sachin Tanwar, Aditya Shinde and Shivam Patare. Defenders: Shubman Shinde, Yogesh Dahiya, Nitesh Kumar, Deepak Sankar, Parvesh Bhainswal and Surjeet Singh; all-rounders: Neeraj Narwal and Bharat Hooda.

The Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 will be broadcast on the Star Sports network, with live streaming available on the JioStar app and website.

Indian supporters will expect the team to aim for another title and to build on the nation’s recent success in the sport. The AKFI will reduce the 17-member list to a 12-player squad after the practice camp, and India’s campaign at the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship begins on October 23 at Veer Savarkar Stadium in Ahmedabad.