Indian archery is entering an exciting new era. With a blend of emerging talent, proven performers, and fearless young stars, India has unveiled its squad for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, setting the stage for another thrilling campaign on the continental stage.

The selection trials was held at the SAI National Centre of Excellence in Sonipat, Haryana. The 12-member squad will represent the nation at the Asian Games beginning September 19 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Young Archers Ready to Lead India’s Charge

One of the biggest highlights of the squad announcement is the rise of Dhiraj Bommadevara, who will lead the men’s recurve team at the upcoming Games.

Dhiraj has steadily emerged as one of India’s brightest archery stars, impressing fans with his composure, consistency, and performances on the international circuit. Alongside him, Neeraj Chauhan and Yashdeep Bhoge complete the recurve line-up eager to shine on one of Asia’s biggest sporting stages.

On the women’s recurve side, Ankita Bhakat and Kumkum Anil Mohod arrive after their stunning gold medal-winning performance at the Archery World Cup in Shanghai, where they upset hosts China. Joining them is Kirti Sharma, adding further strength and depth to the squad.

Jyothi Surekha Vennam Set to Spearhead Compound Team

India’s compound squad will once again be led by world No. 3 Jyothi Surekha Vennam, one of the country’s most decorated and consistent archers.

Jyothi was among India’s biggest stars at the previous Asian Games in Hangzhou, where she won three medals, including gold in the individual, team, and mixed team events. This time, she will lead a talented women’s compound team featuring Chikitha Taniparthi and Prithika Pradeep.

The men’s compound squad includes Sahil Jadhav, Kushal Dalal, and Thirumuru Ganesh Mani Ratnam, a group that reflects India’s growing strength in compound archery.

A Healthy Sign for Indian Archery

The intense competition witnessed during the trials has been widely viewed as a positive sign for Indian archery. Several experienced names narrowly missed selection, underlining the remarkable rise of younger athletes who are now pushing the standards even higher.

Former world No. 1 Deepika Kumari and Olympian Atanu Das missed out on selection but remain among the sport’s most respected figures, continuing to inspire the next generation through their remarkable journeys and achievements for India.

Eyes on Asian Games Glory

India heads into the 2026 Asian Games carrying tremendous momentum after winning nine medals at Hangzhou 2023, including five gold medals. Before travelling to Japan, the squad will also compete in Archery World Cup Stages 3 and 4 in Türkiye and Spain, giving the athletes valuable international exposure ahead of the Games.

With experienced performers and growing confidence on the world stage, Indian archery fans now have plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The arrows are ready, the targets are set, and a new generation is preparing to aim for glory.