The Badminton Association of India has announced India’s men’s and women’s squads for the prestigious Thomas and Uber Cup Finals 2026, set to be held in Horsens from April 24 to May 3. With all top players available, the selections came without major surprises, reflecting a blend of experience and emerging talent.
India’s men’s team retains the core that scripted history at the 2022 edition in Bangkok. Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth and H. S. Prannoy will lead the singles charge, supported by rising talent Ayush Shetty and Kiran George. Lakshya, fresh from a strong run at the All England Open Badminton Championships, will be key to India’s chances after displaying improved all-round play.
In doubles, the experienced duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will spearhead the effort despite recent injury concerns and a title drought. Supporting them are Hariharan Amsakarunan and M.R. Arjun, with Dhruv Kapila available as a flexible option.
Placed in Group A alongside powerhouse China national badminton team, Canada and Australia, India is expected to progress to the knockout stage but will need a collective push to challenge for the title.
The women’s squad, meanwhile, sees the return of two-time Olympic medallist P. V. Sindhu, significantly strengthening the side. Sindhu, who missed the previous edition, will lead a young group that includes Tanvi Sharma, Unnati Hooda, Devika Sihag and Isharani Baruah in singles.
In doubles, the experienced pairs of Treesa Jolly–Gayatri Gopichand and Tanisha Crasto–Ashwini Ponnappa return, with Kavipriya Selvam and Simran Singhi as the second pair. The mix of youth and experience offers balance, though consistency will be tested.
India faces a tough Group A lineup featuring defending champion China, Denmark and Ukraine. China’s squad, led by All England champion Wang Zhi Yi and supported by a strong doubles lineup, is expected to dominate. The real contest for India will likely be against Denmark for a quarterfinal berth.
Denmark’s singles strength, including Line Christophersen and Line Højmark Kjaersfeldt, poses a serious challenge. However, India may hold an edge in doubles, which could prove decisive in close ties.
Having won bronze medals in 2014 and 2016, India’s women’s team will look to return to the podium. With Sindhu back not only as a leader but also as a mentor, the campaign could mark a new chapter for India’s next generation of shuttlers.
