List of all-rounders in Indian men's kabaddi team for Asian Games 2026
Indian men’s kabaddi team include only two all-rounders for Asian Games 2026.
The Asian Games 2026 is fast approaching, with Japan set to host the prestigious multi-sport event for the third time from September 19 to October 4, 2026. The kabaddi competition will take place from September 21 to 26 at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium in Aichi Prefecture, where the world’s best players will battle it out for continental supremacy.
Indian men’s kabaddi team carries the weight of a rich legacy into this tournament. They have won gold in eight of the nine Asian Games editions held so far, with their only setback coming in 2018 when Iran broke their stranglehold.
The team reclaimed their throne at the 2022 Hangzhou Games and is now on the brink of another potential golden chapter in their illustrious history. The coaching setup inspires confidence, with Balwan Singh returning as head coach after a decade away from the role.
During his previous tenure, he guided India to 14 gold medals, including three consecutive Asian Games medals from 2006 to 2014. Alongside him is BC Ramesh, a tactician with multiple PKL titles, making this one of the most experienced coaching combinations in Indian kabaddi history.
The competition promises to be fierce. Iran, the 2018 champions, remain a formidable force, while South Korea and Bangladesh have steadily improved their kabaddi infrastructure. The demanding schedule of six matches in six days will test the squad’s depth and fitness to the limit.
India’s 12-member squad features four specialist raiders, six defenders, and two all-rounders. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the all-rounders who have earned their place in the Indian men’s kabaddi team.
Pawan Sehrawat
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Pawan Sehrawat is arguably the most recognisable name in Indian Kabaddi. Fondly known as the ‘Hi-Flyer’ for his spectacular reach in high jumps, he is one of the most prolific point-scorers in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL).
While he is primarily known as a raider, Sehrawat has consistently proven his worth as a defender, having amassed 65 tackle points over his PKL career. In Season 10, he had a commanding all-round performance with 202 raid points and 15 key tackle points, including a Super Tackle and a High 5.
Although he is far from the definition of a ‘pure all-rounder,’ he has repeatedly secured crucial points in defence alongside brilliant raiding capabilities.
He captained India at the 2022 Asian Games and led the team to gold. His ability to contribute in both areas of the game further enhances his leadership, even though he is not the official captain this time around.
Aslam Inamdar
Aslam Inamdar is closer to being an ideal all-rounder than Pawan Sehrawat, as he scores more defensive points on average. As captain of the Puneri Paltan, with whom he lifted their maiden PKL title in season 10, Aslam scored a total of 168 points, 142 from raids and 26 from tackles.
Inamdar understands the game very well, which makes him a valuable player in tough matches. He has consistently delivered match-winning performances in the PKL. Although his attacking prowess is widely known and frequently discussed, his defensive contributions often get overshadowed.
He has recorded 5 Super Tackles in his PKL career, with 1 High 5. His 41% tackle success rate doesn’t quite do justice to his defensive skills, but he knows how to orchestrate his team’s defence exceptionally well.
His 41% tackle success rate fails to do justice to his defensive skills, which also allow him to orchestrate the defensive line.
For India, he might not have to shoulder much leadership or defensive responsibility, as players like Sunil Kumar and Jaideep Dahiya are ready to take charge. However, when fewer defenders are available on the mat, Aslam and Pawan will have to showcase their capabilities to keep India consistently in the game.
When will the Kabaddi event at the Asian Games 2026 take place?
The event at the Asian Games 2026 will take place from September 21 to 26.
Who will lead the Indian men’s kabaddi team at Asian Games 2026?
Sunil Kumar will lead the Indian men’s team.
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