India’s Medal Hopes Dim as Wrestling and Other Sports Dropped from 2026 Commonwealth Games
The Commonwealth Games 2026, set to take place in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2, will not include several sports where India has historically excelled. Cricket, field hockey, badminton, and wrestling are among the sports removed from the event’s schedule, significantly impacting India’s medal prospects.
New Sports Lineup
The 2026 Games will feature only 10 sports: athletics, swimming, 3×3 basketball, track cycling, weightlifting, lawn bowls, artistic gymnastics, netball, boxing, and judo. Para variants of the first five sports will also be included. The events will be held across four venues: Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, Emirates Arena, and the Scottish Event Campus.
Impact on India
India has been a strong contender in wrestling and shooting, winning 114 and 135 medals respectively in past Commonwealth Games. The exclusion of field hockey marks the first time the sport will not be part of the Games since its debut in 1998. India has also excelled in badminton, table tennis, and squash, with numerous medals in these sports.
Conclusion
The reduced number of sports in the 2026 Commonwealth Games poses a challenge for India, as many of its strong sports are not included. The changes could affect India’s overall medal tally in the upcoming event.
Doubts Revealed
Commonwealth Games -: The Commonwealth Games is a big sports event where athletes from countries that were once part of the British Empire compete. It happens every four years, like the Olympics.
Glasgow -: Glasgow is a city in Scotland, which is part of the United Kingdom. It’s known for hosting big events and has many sports facilities.
Wrestling -: Wrestling is a sport where two people try to pin each other to the ground. India has been very good at wrestling and has won many medals in this sport.
Medal Prospects -: Medal prospects refer to the chances or likelihood of winning medals in sports competitions. For India, sports like wrestling and cricket have been strong areas where they often win medals.
Athletics -: Athletics includes sports like running, jumping, and throwing. It’s one of the main sports in big events like the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics.
Shooting -: Shooting is a sport where participants aim and shoot at targets. India has been successful in shooting events, winning many medals in past competitions.
