New Delhi, August 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Ace kabaddi player Ashu Malik has described representing India as an emotion beyond words after being named in the national squad for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
The selection also marks a significant milestone for the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), with nine of the 12 players in India’s Asian Games squad having emerged from its ecosystem. Dronacharya Award recipient Balwan Singh, chairman of the KCL, will serve as the national team’s head coach.
Malik, who represents Hisar Heroes in the KCL, said he was grateful for the opportunities that had shaped his career and vowed to give his best for the country.
“Wearing the India jersey is an emotion that cannot be expressed in words. I am thankful for the opportunities that have shaped my journey and will give my 100 per cent for India,” Malik said.
The other KCL players selected in the squad include Sunil Malik of Karnal Kings, Ayan Lauchab of Sonipat Stars, Devank Dalal of Bhiwani Bulls, Rahul Setpal of Gurugram Gurus, Jaideep Dahiya of Faridabad Fighters and Ankit Jaglan of Panipat Panthers.
Sunil Malik called representing India the biggest honour of his life and credited the KCL with giving him valuable exposure and confidence.
Ayan Lauchab described his selection as a dream come true, while Devank Dalal said the opportunity was especially significant for his family and promised to give his all on the mat.
Rahul Setpal said his KCL experience had helped him develop as a player and described the Asian Games as a “massive platform”.
Dahiya reflected on his journey from the league to the national team, calling it a special experience, while Jaglan said representing India was a source of immense pride and vowed to give his best at every opportunity.
The strong representation underlines the KCL’s role as a competitive pathway for kabaddi players seeking to progress from domestic franchise-based competition to the international stage.
With nine players from the league in the 12-member national squad and Balwan Singh taking charge as head coach, the KCL has secured a prominent presence in India’s Asian Games campaign.
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