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However, unlike the previous editions, wrestling, badminton, table tennis and shooting aren't a part of CWG 2026, thus severely affecting India's medal count. For the fact, these four disciplines alone counted for 25 of the 61 medals that India won at Birmingham four years ago in 2022.

Initially the CWG 2026 was to be held by Australian state Victoria. However, they withdrew their hosting rights in 2023, citing spiralling costs. Glasgow stepped in to the rescue. This is not the first time Glasgow hosted a CWG event. Earlier, Glasgow hosted the CWG in 2014.

As far as India is concerned, athletics will have the largest representation with 32 athletes. Judo and boxing have 14 each while 12 athletes will represent weightlifting. Besides Neeraj, weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, boxer Lovlina Borgohain are among the medal contenders.

Complete list of Indian athletes at CWG 2026

Besides the traditional medal contenders, India will also hope that its lawn bowls teams can recreate the magic from Birmingham Games in 2022. Four years ago, Indian women scripted history with gold and the men won a silver.

The judokas, who contributed three medals in the previous edition, will be looking to equal or improve on that performance despite stronger competition. Not to forget, Indian para athletes are also expected to make a substantial contribution, with six para events now integrated at the Games.

Although the reduced sports programme means India is unlikely to match its 61-medal haul from Birmingham, a place among the top five nations would underline the country's depth across Olympic sports.