Pullela gopichand

New Delhi: India's chief national badminton coach Pullela Gopichand feels that excluding badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow has been aimed at 'stunting the progress of nations like India'. He added that the move should be scrutinised and discussed with the relevant stakeholders.

Expressing his disappointment, the former shuttler said that badminton's snub from the Games is a 'significant lapse' and lacks 'clear reasoning and jeopardising its growth'.

“I am deeply appalled and disappointed by the decision to exclude badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow—a judgment that appears aimed at stunting the progress of nations like India. Badminton has brought us immense pride and success, serving as a vital platform for our brightest talents to shine on the international stage. This decision represents a significant lapse not just for Indian badminton, but for the sport worldwide, lacking clear reasoning and jeopardising its growth," Gopichand said in a statement.