New Delhi: India is set to field a 125-member contingent at the upcoming Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, with expectations of a solid medal haul across key disciplines. With traditional strengths in weightlifting, boxing and athletics, the country is projected to secure around 27 medals, according to early assessments.
The squad features a mix of experienced champions and rising talents, many of whom arrive in strong form after impressive performances at domestic and international competitions.
Athletics led by Neeraj Chopra
India’s athletics campaign will be spearheaded by Neeraj Chopra, one of the biggest stars in global track and field. After missing the previous edition due to injury, the Olympic medallist returns with high expectations, aiming to add another Commonwealth medal to his tally.
In middle-distance events, Parul Chaudhary has emerged as a strong contender in the 3000m steeplechase and 5000m. Field events, however, present India’s strongest medal opportunities.
Murali Sreeshankar, who has recovered from a serious injury, will aim to improve on his previous silver medal performance. In the triple jump, Praveen Chithravel enters the Games with impressive form, making him a key medal prospect.
Shot put veterans Tejinderpal Toor and Manpreet Kaur will lead India’s challenge, while discus throwers Seema Kaliramma and Nidhi Rani add further depth.
Another athlete to watch is Tejaswin Shankar, who has consistently delivered strong performances and will aim for a podium finish in the decathlon.
Weightlifting remains a stronghold
Weightlifting continues to be one of India’s most reliable medal-producing sports at the Commonwealth Games. Leading the contingent is Mirabai Chanu, a consistent performer on the global stage.
She will be supported by Bindiyarani Devi and Harjinder Kaur, both of whom secured medals in the previous Games. M Raja returns after recovering from injury, while young lifter Ajaya Babu is expected to make an impact in his debut appearance.
Boxing offers depth across categories
India’s boxing squad is packed with talent and is expected to contribute significantly to the medal tally. Leading the charge is Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain.
She is joined by a strong group including Jaismine Lamboria, Sakshi Chaudhary, Preeti Pawar and Priya Ghanghas. Arundhati Chaudhary also enters the competition in strong form after a recent international gold medal.
On the men’s side, Jadumani Singh and Sachin Siwach are among the key medal hopefuls.
Judo and lawn bowls add to medal hopes
In judo, Tulika Maan will look to improve on her previous silver medal performance. She is supported by Avtar Singh and rising talent Harsh Tokas.
Meanwhile, lawn bowls continues to offer potential after its success in earlier editions. Putul Sonowal and Nayanmoni Saikia will aim to replicate past achievements.
Conclusion
India heads into the Commonwealth Games 2026 with a balanced squad and realistic medal ambitions. With established stars like Neeraj Chopra and Mirabai Chanu leading the charge, and a strong supporting cast across disciplines, the country is well-positioned to achieve a medal tally close to 27.
Success, however, will depend on consistency from experienced athletes and breakthrough performances from emerging talents. If both elements align, India could once again deliver an impressive showing on the Commonwealth stage.