Deepak Sankar has been named as a standby player for the Indian men’s kabaddi team ahead of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The Bengaluru Bulls defender was initially left out of India’s 12-member squad despite enjoying an impressive domestic season. Following questions over his exclusion and an official request from the Tamil Nadu Kabaddi Association, the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India confirmed his place in the reserve group.
The decision keeps the young defender involved with the national setup and gives him an opportunity to make his senior international debut if an injury or squad change occurs. The Deepak Sankar Asian Games 2026 selection is also a recognition of his rapid rise in Indian kabaddi.
Deepak Sankar Kabaddi Profile
Born on October 27, 2004, in Kattur, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, Deepak Sankar has established himself as a promising left corner defender. His strongest move is the ankle hold, which has helped him become a reliable defender at the professional level.
The Deepak Sankar kabaddi journey took a major step forward during Pro Kabaddi League Season 12. Playing for Bengaluru Bulls, he produced an excellent debut campaign and quickly became one of the team’s important defensive players.
Breakout PKL Season With Bengaluru Bulls
Deepak made a strong impression in PKL 12 by scoring 64 tackle points in 19 matches. His tackle success rate was close to 60 percent, showing his consistency against some of the league’s best raiders.
His performances earned him the Best Emerging Player award. He then continued his strong form in the Senior National Kabaddi Championship, where he played an important defensive role for Tamil Nadu.
His performances across both competitions helped strengthen his case for national selection. Deepak was subsequently included in the 29-player preparatory camp before the Asian Games squad was finalised.
Why Was Deepak Sankar Left Out?
Despite his impressive domestic performances, the selection panel chose experienced defenders Ankit Jaglan and Sumit Sangwan as the main left corner options in the 12-member Indian squad.
The decision created debate among kabaddi fans and experts, particularly because Deepak had been one of the standout young defenders during the domestic season. His exclusion also prompted the Tamil Nadu Kabaddi Association to seek clarification from the AKFI.
Following the intervention, the federation confirmed that Deepak had been included in the official standby group. This means he remains part of the extended Indian setup and can be called upon if circumstances require a replacement.
India Kabaddi Squad Asian Games
India will enter the Asian Games 2026 as the defending men’s kabaddi champions. At the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023, India defeated Iran in a dramatic final to win the gold medal.
The India kabaddi squad Asian Games campaign in Aichi-Nagoya will therefore come with high expectations. While Deepak is not currently part of the main 12-member squad, his standby position keeps him close to the team and gives him an important opportunity to gain experience at the international level.
At just 21 years old, Deepak Sankar has already made significant progress in his career. His performances for Bengaluru Bulls and Tamil Nadu have put him on the national radar, and the Asian Games standby role could be an important step towards becoming a regular member of India’s senior kabaddi team.
