Badminton

Chirag Shetty Criticizes Exclusion of Badminton from 2026 Commonwealth Games

Former world No.1 doubles badminton player Chirag Shetty has voiced strong criticism against the exclusion of badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games, calling it a “very bad decision.” 

The scaled-down roster, unveiled on October 23, 2024, also excludes other key sports like hockey, shooting, cricket, and wrestling, all of which significantly impact India’s medal prospects.

Shetty, who alongside his partner Satwiksairaj Rankireddy clinched the men’s doubles gold at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and the mixed team gold at the 2018 Gold Coast Games, expressed his disappointment over the removal of badminton. 

“I think it’s a very bad decision, to be honest. I can say for badminton, I think it’s the most watched sport. It’s definitely one of the most watched sports in the Commonwealth Games,” Shetty stated.

Badminton has long been one of the marquee sports in the Commonwealth Games, drawing large audiences and producing intense competition. Shetty highlighted the sport’s popularity at the event, sharing his personal experiences of packed stadiums during the previous editions. 

“I’ve been part of two editions at the Gold Coast and at the Birmingham editions. It’s very difficult to get a seat for any of the rounds,” he said, underlining how badminton consistently attracts large crowds.

The decision, Shetty believes, could deal a significant blow not only to badminton but also to the larger Indian sporting community, given the country’s strong track record in sports that have now been excluded. 

“Not just for badminton, even hockey, wrestling, I think all the sports which India does well at are being removed,” he added, calling it a matter of concern for the entire sporting fraternity.

Shetty urged India’s national sports federations and government to take up the issue with the Commonwealth Games authorities and push for a reversal of the decision. 

“As far as boycotting the event goes, I think it’s in the hands of the government and associations to decide,” he noted, emphasizing the need for action at the highest levels to protect the interests of these sports.

The exclusion of badminton and other sports from the 2026 event comes as a shock, especially to a nation like India, which has consistently excelled in them at the Commonwealth Games. 

Shetty, along with the wider badminton community, remains hopeful that the decision could be reconsidered. “We were definitely looking forward to defending our title,” he concluded, underscoring the athletes’ disappointment at the missed opportunity.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India vs Australia Tests Preview: Stern test for visitors as storied rivalry reignites in Perth

The much-anticipated five-match Test series between India and Australia is poised to be  a cricketing… Read More

November 21, 2024

PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen Shine at China Masters, Satwik-Chirag Pair Returns with a Gritty Win

Indian shuttlers made a strong start at the China Masters Super 750 badminton tournament on… Read More

November 21, 2024

Jofra Archer Reverses Decision, Joins IPL 2025 Mega Auction

England pacer Jofra Archer has decided to participate in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, scheduled… Read More

November 21, 2024

All You Need to Know About Nathan Rodrigues, The Rising Star of Mumbai City FC and Indian Football

At just 20 years old, Nathan Rodrigues has become one of the most exciting talents… Read More

November 21, 2024

‘Privileged’ Jasprit Bumrah looking forward to leading in his own way in opening Perth Test against Australia in Border-Gavaskar series

India’s gun fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is looking forward to leading India in the opening… Read More

November 21, 2024

‘Stay disciplined’ – Yashasvi Jaiswal opens up on Virat Kohli’s advice ahead of BGT 2024-25

Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has opened up on Virat Kohli’s advice ahead of the Border-Gavaskar… Read More

November 21, 2024