India have a proud history in international kabaddi, and strong leadership has played an important role in the country’s success. The men’s and women’s national teams are currently led by two experienced defenders who have already achieved major success at the international level.
The current India kabaddi captain for the men’s team is veteran defender Sunil Kumar, while Ritu Negi leads the women’s side. Both players bring significant experience and have played important roles in India’s recent international campaigns.
Who Is India Men’s Kabaddi Team Captain?
Sunil Kumar is the current India men’s kabaddi team captain. The experienced right cover defender has been entrusted with leading India’s 12 member squad at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi Nagoya, Japan.
Sunil is one of the most experienced defenders in Indian kabaddi and has previously captained the national team at the Asian Kabaddi Championship in Busan. His leadership combines defensive experience with a strong understanding of the demands of international competition.
The captaincy represents a change from India’s gold medal winning campaign at the Hangzhou Asian Games, where star raider Pawan Sehrawat led the team. Pawan remains an important member of the current squad and is expected to play a major role as one of India’s leading raiders.
Aslam Inamdar is another important leadership option within the men’s squad. The combination of experienced defenders and attacking stars gives India several players capable of taking responsibility during pressure situations.
Sunil has also enjoyed success at the domestic level, including PKL title success with Jaipur Pink Panthers. His international experience and defensive ability make him a natural choice to lead the national side.
Who Is India Women’s Kabaddi Team Captain?
Ritu Negi is the current India women’s kabaddi team captain. The experienced defender from Sirmaur in Himachal Pradesh has been a key part of India’s women’s team for more than a decade.
Negi has established herself as one of the leading defenders in Indian women’s kabaddi. Her biggest achievement as captain came at the Asian Games, where she led India to a gold medal after a thrilling final victory over Chinese Taipei.
Her contribution to Indian kabaddi was also recognised with the prestigious Arjuna Award. The honour reflected her long service and achievements at the international level.
Pushpa Rana serves as an important leadership figure alongside Negi as vice captain. Her experience gives India additional stability within the squad.
India Kabaddi Team Captains and Their Roles
The current India kabaddi team captains have different responsibilities based on their positions and playing styles. Sunil Kumar operates as a right cover defender, while Ritu Negi is primarily a right corner defender.
Both captains are defensive players, meaning they have an important role in organising their respective defensive units. Their experience also allows them to communicate effectively with teammates during crucial moments.
Sunil has won major honours including the Asian Championship in 2023 and PKL titles, while Negi has led India to Asian Games gold and an Asian Championship title.
Strong Leadership for India’s Asian Games Campaign
The appointment of Sunil Kumar and Ritu Negi gives India two experienced leaders ahead of major international competition. Both understand the pressure associated with representing India and have already experienced success at the highest level.
For the men’s team, Sunil will look to lead a new generation while working alongside established stars such as Pawan Sehrawat and Aslam Inamdar. For the women’s team, Negi will aim to continue India’s strong record under her leadership.
As India prepare for another major Asian Games campaign, the experience of their two captains could prove crucial. Their leadership, defensive skills and understanding of international kabaddi will be central to India’s hopes of winning more medals.
