Neeraj Chopra would strive to get back to the winning ways and regain the Commonwealth Games crown.
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As a truncated 2026 Commonwealth Games kicks off on Thursday, most of the stakeholders admit the medal rush may not be as prolific but insist there is no lack of incentive for those participating.
“I think it’s going to be a very different Commonwealth Games because a lot of our medal-winning sports are missing. Last two CWG, we won 12 medals in wrestling, six in badminton, seven in table tennis, two each in hockey and squash — none of them is there. So it’s 100% going to affect our medal tally.
“(But) in terms of position on the table, I think it’ll still be Australia and England at the top, by far the strongest at this level. For the third place, which India ideally should be aiming for, it’s always a battle with New Zealand and Canada. What’s going to be really important is, can we win those gold medals?” former India captain and CEO of Olympic Gold Quest Viren Rasquinha said in an interaction on Wednesday.
He admitted it was disappointing but added that most sports have other important events ongoing, ensuring there was no drop in terms of competitive exposure ahead of the Asian Games.
“Currently, all our top shooters are at the Rifle & Pistol World Cup in Hangzhou. In table tennis the UTT is on, there will be the hockey World Cup and the badminton World Championships.
“For those participating, I totally disagree with the notion that the Commonwealth Games is not of value. As athletes and coaches, you always respect every competition and as an opportunity to participate and do well for younger players, the Commonwealth Games is a great platform to make a name for yourself.”
Asked about his medal expectations, Rasquinha refused to put a number. “I’m never one for making predictions. If you look at what’s happened in Indian athletics recently, there have been about 26 National records in the last 6-12 months. So, I think athletics is one sport where we can look at 8-10 medals. The women’s boxing squad is so strong this time, all seven participants are capable of winning medals. Weightlifting, again, we can expect 8-10.”
(The interaction was facilitated by Sony Sports Network, the official broadcasters of the Commonwealth Games 2026. Tune-In: Day 1, July 24 from 1 PM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD)
Published – July 22, 2026 06:03 pm IST
