CWG 2026: Big blow to India as key sports like Hockey, Badminton, Cricket, and Shooting axed

In a major setback to India's medal hopes, the Commonwealth Games 2026, will no longer feature key sports like hockey, badminton, cricket, wrestling, and shooting. These disciplines, which have historically been strongholds for Indian athletes, have been dropped by the host city in a bid to make the event more cost-effective.

This decision is expected to significantly affect India's medal tally, as a bulk of the country’s medals in previous editions came from these now-axed events. Glasgow, which previously hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2014, has announced a reduced roster of 10 sports for the 23rd edition of the Games, focusing on disciplines like athletics, swimming, gymnastics, and cycling.

The aim is to limit expenses by concentrating the events across four venues within an eight-mile radius. The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) noted that the streamlined setup would help reduce the logistical and financial burden, given that the Games are projected to inject over £100 million of inward investment into Glasgow while minimizing public funding.

Details of excluded sports and their impact on India:

Shooting, which was already absent from the Birmingham 2022 Games, has been one of India's most successful events, with a staggering 135 medals in past editions. This includes 63 gold medals, making its omission a significant blow to India’s chances of maintaining a strong medal count.

Similarly, hockey’s exclusion is a major disappointment for the Indian contingent. The men’s team has won three silver and two bronze medals, while the women’s team famously secured a historic gold in the 2002 edition. The decision to drop hockey may be influenced by its proximity to the World Cup, scheduled just weeks after the Commonwealth Games.

Badminton, another key sport for India, will also be absent in 2026. India has secured 31 medals in the sport across various editions, including 10 golds. Entering as defending champions in men’s singles, women’s singles, and men’s doubles, India was expected to put up a strong defence in Glasgow.

Wrestling, another discipline where India has excelled, will also not feature in the upcoming edition. With 114 medals to its name, including 49 golds, its exclusion further hampers India’s chances of dominating the medal table.

Cricket, which was reintroduced to the Commonwealth Games in 2022, saw the Indian women's team claim a silver medal. Its absence from the 2026 Games adds to the growing list of sports where India could have earned podium finishes.