Pawan Sehrawat Focused on Gold Medal as India Prepare for Asian Games 2026
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Indian kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat says his main focus at the Asian Games 2026 is helping India win another gold medal, regardless of whether he holds the captaincy.
Sehrawat, who captained India to the men’s kabaddi gold medal at the Hangzhou 2023 Asian Games, is returning for his second appearance at the continental event. This time, Sunil Kumar has taken over as captain.
The change has not affected Sehrawat’s approach. The experienced player said his biggest achievement at the current Games was being selected as one of India’s flag-bearers for the opening ceremony in Nagoya.
“I’m feeling very proud that this is my second Asian Games and I got the chance to be the national flag-bearer,” Sehrawat said in an interview with Olympics.com.
Sehrawat carried the Indian flag alongside shooter Manu Bhaker during the opening ceremony.
Leadership Takes a Back Seat to Team Goals
With Sunil Kumar now leading the kabaddi team, Sehrawat has taken on a senior role within a squad that includes several younger players.
The veteran said the decision over the captaincy is made by the federation, selectors and coaching staff. For him, the priority remains the team’s performance.
He stressed that it makes little difference whether he or Sunil wears the captain’s armband, as the squad has one shared objective: winning the gold medal.
Sunil Kumar has also highlighted the importance of teamwork and said that good advice from any member of the squad should be welcomed.
“If Pawan gives good advice, we’ll listen to Pawan; if Ayan gives good advice, we’ll listen to him too,” Sunil said.
Sunil Kumar Calls Captaincy a Responsibility
Sunil, who has significant leadership experience in the Pro Kabaddi League, believes representing India at the Asian Games carries a different level of responsibility.
He explained that players in the Pro Kabaddi League usually have opportunities to recover from a defeat, whereas a major international tournament can provide far fewer chances.
Sunil said he does not view the expectations surrounding the Indian team as pressure. Instead, he considers the captaincy a responsibility to deliver a gold medal for the country and the supporters.
Young Players Add to India’s Squad
The Indian captain also praised younger players Ayan Lohchab and Devank Dalal for their performances.
With kabaddi played extensively across India, Sunil noted that earning a place in the final 12-player national squad is a significant achievement because of the depth of talent available.
The younger players are expected to benefit from the experience of senior members such as Sehrawat as India look to defend their Asian Games kabaddi title.
Sehrawat Still Enjoys the Game
Despite his years at the highest level, Sehrawat said his enthusiasm for kabaddi remains strong.
He described the sport as bringing a unique energy whenever he steps onto the mat. Although he has also played badminton, he said kabaddi gives him a different feeling and motivation.
For now, his role may be different from the one he had in Hangzhou, but his objective remains unchanged: contributing to India’s campaign and helping the team compete for another Asian Games gold medal.
