Surjeet Singh named India captain, Naveen Kumar appointed vice-captain for Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026

Surjeet Singh has been named captain of the Indian men's kabaddi team and Naveen Kumar appointed vice-captain for the inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, which runs from October 23 to 31.

Matches in the tournament will be played at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex. The event is the first edition of the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship and has been added to the international kabaddi calendar. It will include both men's and women's competitions and bring teams from Commonwealth nations together to contest the title.

The leadership pairing pairs Surjeet’s defensive experience with Naveen’s attacking skills as India prepare to compete on home soil. Playing in front of home supporters can serve as an extra boost for the side. The selectors have emphasised a balance between defence and offence in the captaincy appointments.

Surjeet will carry responsibility for organising the team on the mat, particularly in high-pressure situations. His leadership will be important in maintaining defensive discipline and helping the team respond to opponents’ attacking threats. The role places emphasis on defensive structure and in-game adjustments.

Naveen Kumar will serve as the deputy and is expected to spearhead India’s raiding department. His attacking contributions could prove crucial in tight contests. Individual raids and quick points are highlighted as elements that can shift momentum in close matches.

The inaugural championship gives Indian players a chance to establish their dominance at a new international event. Organisers and observers see the competition as a platform for kabaddi’s broader development, offering the traditional Indian sport exposure across Commonwealth countries. Participating nations will vie to become the first champions of the tournament.

India will enter the championship to win back-to-back titles, given the country’s strong kabaddi tradition and depth of talent. With Surjeet leading the side and Naveen supporting him as vice-captain, the team will aim to combine defensive organisation with effective raiding throughout the tournament.