New Delhi, August 26: Ahead of the upcoming Asian Games 2026 in Japan, nine players from the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) have made the cut for the final
12-member squad.
The achievement is further highlighted by the appointment of Dronacharya Awardee Shri Balwan Singh Ji, Chairman of the Kabaddi Champions League, as the Head Coach of the Indian team for the prestigious continental event.
KCL Becomes Major Pipeline for Team India
The nine players representing India include Sunil Malik of Karnal Kings, Ayan Lauchab of Sonipat Stars, Devank Dalal of Bhiwani Bulls, Ashu Malik of Hisar Heroes, Rahul Setpal of Gurugram Gurus, Jaideep Dahiya of Faridabad Fighters and Ankit Jaglan of Panipat Panthers, along with other KCL representatives.
For the players, the selection represents the culmination of years of hard work and a chance to take their KCL experience onto the international stage.
"Representing India is the biggest honour of my life. My journey through KCL has given me valuable experience and confidence. I am extremely proud to carry the KCL legacy onto the international stage and will give my best for the Tricolour," Sunil Malik said.
Ayan Lauchab also credited the league for providing him with an important platform to develop his game. "It is a dream come true to represent India at the Asian Games. KCL has provided me with an important platform to develop as a player. I am grateful for the support and determined to make my country and KCL proud," Lauchab said.
Players Eager to Make Their Mark In Asian Games
Devank Dalal described his selection as a special moment for both himself and his family, while expressing his determination to deliver on the biggest stage.
"This is a very special moment for me and my family. The opportunity to represent India at the Asian Games is something every athlete dreams of. I will give everything on the mat and try to bring glory to the nation," Dalal said.
Ashu Malik echoed the sentiment, saying the opportunity to wear the national jersey carries immense emotional significance. "Wearing the India jersey is an emotion that cannot be expressed in words. I am thankful for the opportunities that have shaped my journey and will give my 100 per cent for India," Malik said.
Rahul Setpal said his experience in the KCL has helped him develop as a player and prepare for the demands of international competition. "The Asian Games is a massive platform and I am honoured to be part of Team India. My KCL experience has helped me grow, and I am looking forward to giving my best for the country," Setpal said.
From KCL Franchises to the Asian Games
Jaideep Dahiya highlighted the significance of his journey from the league to the national team, while Ankit Jaglan looked ahead to the challenge of competing at the Asian Games.
"The journey from KCL to representing India has been extremely special. I am proud of where this journey has taken me and will work hard to make the entire KCL family and India proud," Dahiya said.
"Representing India is a proud moment for every athlete. I am excited about the challenge ahead and will give my best every time I step onto the mat," Jaglan said.
The presence of nine KCL players in the Indian squad is being viewed as a major boost for the league, whose franchise-based structure aims to provide a competitive platform for both emerging and established kabaddi players.
With Balwan Singh Ji also taking charge as head coach, the KCL has a strong presence in India's Asian Games campaign. The league and its franchise partners have congratulated the players, coaching staff and Team India, while wishing them success in Japan. From the KCL mat to the Asian Games stage, the nine players will now look to carry the Tricolour with pride.
