India’s preparations for the 2026 Asian Games gathered momentum this week with the announcement of the national tennis squad, but the selection has already sparked discussion across Indian tennis circles. While several of the country’s top female players earned places in the team bound for Aichi-Nagoya, the omission of former national champion Srivalli Rashmikaa has emerged as one of the biggest talking points ahead of the continental showpiece.
The All India Tennis Association (AITA) unveiled a 12-member squad comprising six men and six women, alongside reserve players, for the Asian Games scheduled to take place in Japan from September 19 to October 4. According to the federation, selections were made after evaluating recent performances on the professional circuit, current rankings and overall form.
For the women’s team, India’s top-ranked singles player Sahaja Yamalapalli will spearhead the challenge. She is joined by Vaishnavi Adkar, Vaidehee Chaudhari, Rutuja Bhosale, Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare. Zeel Desai and Shruti Ahlawat have been named as reserve players.
The squad reflects a blend of established performers and rising talents. Sahaja, currently India’s highest-ranked female singles player, has enjoyed a consistent run on the ITF circuit over the past two seasons and is expected to lead India’s campaign in women’s singles. Vaishnavi Adkar and Vaidehee Chaudhari have also impressed with steady performances at international tournaments, earning their opportunity to compete at one of Asia’s most prestigious multi-sport events.
India’s doubles prospects will largely depend on the experienced trio of Ankita Raina, Prarthana Thombare and Rutuja Bhosale. All three have represented India extensively in team competitions and possess valuable experience at major international events. Ankita, in particular, has been one of India’s most successful female players in recent years, having competed in Grand Slam tournaments and represented the country in the Billie Jean King Cup.
However, despite the strength of the selected squad, much of the attention has centred on the absence of Srivalli Rashmikaa. The Hyderabad-born player, who has represented India internationally and remains a respected figure on the domestic circuit, was not included in either the main squad or the reserve list.
AITA did not provide individual explanations regarding specific inclusions or omissions. Instead, the federation reiterated that selections were based on recent performances, rankings and the recommendations of the selection committee chaired by former Davis Cup player Nandan Bal.
The omission highlights the intense competition for places within Indian women’s tennis. With only six spots available, selectors faced the difficult task of balancing current form, experience and long-term potential. Similar selection debates have emerged across multiple Indian sports in recent months as federations finalise their Asian Games contingents. High-profile athletes in disciplines such as archery have also missed selection despite impressive achievements, underlining the competitive nature of qualification processes.
The Asian Games represent one of the most important events on the tennis calendar for Indian players. Unlike many professional tournaments that focus solely on individual rankings, the Games provide athletes with the opportunity to compete for national pride while contributing to India’s overall medal tally.
Indian tennis has traditionally enjoyed success at the continental event. Over the years, the country has secured medals through a combination of strong singles performances and successful doubles partnerships. Women’s doubles and mixed doubles have often provided India’s best opportunities for podium finishes, making the selection of experienced doubles specialists particularly significant.
The upcoming competition in Nagoya is expected to feature several of Asia’s strongest tennis nations, including China, Japan, South Korea and Kazakhstan. Many of these countries boast players competing regularly on the WTA and ATP Tours, ensuring a high standard of competition throughout the tournament.
AITA Secretary General Sunder Iyer expressed confidence in the selected group, stating that the committee had carefully assessed performances before finalising the team.
“The Selection Committee has carefully evaluated performances across the professional circuit and selected a team that combines experience, current form and future potential. We are confident that this group of athletes will represent India with distinction at the Asian Games in Nagoya.”
As preparations begin for the September event, the spotlight will firmly remain on India’s women’s squad. Led by Sahaja Yamalapalli and strengthened by experienced campaigners such as Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare, the team will aim to challenge Asia’s best and add to India’s proud tennis legacy.
At the same time, the debate surrounding Srivalli Rashmikaa’s omission is unlikely to fade anytime soon, ensuring that the road to Nagoya begins with as much discussion off the court as on it.
India will field the following squad at the Asian Games:
Men: Sumit Nagal, Manas Dhamne, Dhakshineshwar Suresh, Yuki Bhambri, N Sriram Balaji, Anirudh Chandrasekar
Women: Sahaja Yamalapalli, Vaishnavi Adkar, Vaidehee Chaudhari, Rutuja Bhosale, Ankita Raina, Prarthana Thombare
Reserves: Karan Singh, Rithvik BollipAITA has named India’s 12-member tennis squad for the 2026 Asian Games, led by Sahaja Yamalapalli and Ankita Raina, with Srivalli Rashmikaa’s omission drawing attention.alli, Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha, Zeel Desai and Shruti Ahlawat
