‘India shouldn’t send team for 2026 Commonwealth Games’: Pullela Gopichand, Vimal Kumar react after badminton removed from CWG programme | More sports News

Pullela Gopichand (Photo Source: X)

The Commonwealth Games Federation’s (CGF) decision to axe as many as 12 sports from the Glasgow 2026 programme has invited sharp response from India’s celebrated coaches Pullela Gopichand and Vimal Kumar, who have called for the country to boycott the Games.
Badminton, along with popular sports like hockey, cricket, wrestling, archery and table tennis, has been axed from the 2026 edition of CWG.Diving, rugby sevens, beach volleyball, mountain biking, squash and rhythmic gymnastics are other sports that have been dropped.
It has come as a blow to India, who have had a rich CWG history in sports like table tennis, badminton, wrestling and hockey.

“There is no need for CWG. In my opinion, they should do away with it,” former India coach Vimal told PTI. “It is better to organise the Olympics and Asian Games than CWG. It is pathetic, I am really disappointed. CWG is losing its charm, its relevance, so I feel strongly we shouldn’t send out a team for CWG, it is not required.”
“Instead of CWG it is important to look at ways to provide better facilities to athletes at the Olympics and Asian Games. CWG is not required. You have to put good physical sport in the program, if you take away all that then what’s the point,” he said.
The CGF unveiled Glasgow as the host nation for the 2026 Games, which will include only 10 sports.
Australia’s Victoria withdrew as host last year.

Gopichand also slammed the decision to drop so many sports.
“I am deeply appalled and disappointed by the decision to exclude badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games — a judgment that appears to be aimed at stunting the progress of nations like India,” said the celebrated coach, who is also a former All England champion.
“Badminton has brought us immense pride and success, serving as a vital platform for our brightest talents to shine on the international stage. This decision represents a significant lapse not just for Indian badminton, but for the sport worldwide, lacking clear reasoning and jeopardizing its growth,” he added.
He urged the country to stand up against the decision and voice out its disapproval. .
“It is crucial that we raise our voices and bring this issue to the appropriate authorities to ensure badminton continues to thrive and inspire future generations. As the sport experiences exponential growth globally, the reasons for its exclusion must be scrutinized and discussed with the relevant stakeholders. We cannot allow such shortsighted decisions to undermine the progress we have tirelessly achieved,” said Gopichand..
The 23rd CWG will be played from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow.
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