The Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) has announced the probable squad for the 20th Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan from September 19 to October 4, 2026. While most fans are discussing who will make the final squad, another important question remains unanswered: Who will become India's vice-captain? If Pawan Sehrawat retains the captaincy after leading India to the Asian Games gold medal in Hangzhou, selecting the right vice-captain could be one of the most important decisions for the coaching staff. Unlike many sports, the vice-captain in kabaddi has a major role during the match. Since a raiding captain often spends time off the mat after being tackled, the vice-captain becomes the team's leader on the court, organizing the defense and guiding teammates through crucial moments. Here are the leading candidates.

Why India's Vice-Captain Matters

International kabaddi matches are decided by small moments. A defensive mistake, poor communication, or a missed tackle can completely change the outcome of a final.

When the captain is off the mat after a raid, someone must:

• Organize the defensive chain.
• Keep players calm under pressure.
• Make tactical decisions.
• Maintain communication with the coaching staff.

This makes the vice-captain one of the most important players in the squad.

Sunil Kumar Malik – The Clear Favourite

If India wants experience and tactical stability, Sunil Kumar Malik appears to be the strongest choice.

Why Sunil?

His leadership record speaks for itself.

• Vice-captain of India's Asian Games gold medal-winning team.
• Named captain for the 2023 Asian Kabaddi Championship.
• Led Indian Railways to the 72nd Senior National Kabaddi Championship title.
• Holds the record for the most captaincy wins in Pro Kabaddi League history.

As India's Right Cover defender, Sunil always has the best view of the game. Whenever Pawan Sehrawat goes for a raid, Sunil naturally becomes the defensive leader. His calm decision-making and ability to organize the backline make him a perfect vice-captain.

Why He Fits This Team

India's probable squad includes several aggressive raiders such as Devank Dalal, Ashu Malik, Arjun Deshwal and Pawan Sehrawat. With so much attacking firepower already available, India needs someone who can balance the team defensively. Sunil provides exactly that.

Aslam Inamdar – The Modern Leader

If the selectors are thinking beyond 2026, Aslam Inamdar is one of the strongest leadership candidates. The Puneri Paltan captain has become one of the smartest leaders in Indian kabaddi over the last few seasons.

Why Aslam?

• Led Puneri Paltan to their first PKL title.
• Won the PKL MVP award.
• Successfully captained the franchise across multiple seasons.
• Excellent all-round player who contributes in both raids and tackles.

Unlike many star raiders, Aslam believes in team-first kabaddi. He trusts his teammates, rotates responsibility, and rarely forces unnecessary raids. His leadership style is calm, modern, and highly tactical.

The Biggest Concern

There is one tactical issue. If both Pawan Sehrawat and Aslam Inamdar are raiding during the same phase of the game, both could end up off the mat simultaneously. This would temporarily leave the team without either of its senior leaders during critical defensive situations. That is something the coaching staff will certainly consider.

Arjun Deshwal – The Silent Contender

Although he is not discussed as often, Arjun Deshwal deserves recognition. For several PKL seasons, Arjun has been one of India's most consistent raiders.

Why Arjun?

• One of the league's most dependable point scorers.
• Outstanding Do-or-Die raid success.
• Calm temperament in pressure situations.
• Vast experience in big matches.

Arjun rarely makes reckless decisions. His composure makes him a reliable option whenever India needs safe raid points. Although he is not the front-runner, he remains a genuine contender for the vice-captaincy.

ADT Sports Analysis

Looking at India's probable squad, the team already has world-class raiders capable of scoring points against any opposition. The bigger challenge will be maintaining defensive discipline against teams like Iran, South Korea, and Pakistan, who rely heavily on physical raiding and tactical pressure. That is why Sunil Kumar Malik appears to be the most balanced option for vice-captain. His leadership style perfectly complements Pawan Sehrawat's aggressive approach. Meanwhile, Aslam Inamdar is undoubtedly India's future captain and could eventually lead the national team after the 2026 Asian Games.

Final Verdict

If Pawan Sehrawat continues as India's captain, the vice-captaincy battle is most likely between Sunil Kumar Malik and Aslam Inamdar, with Arjun Deshwal remaining a strong outsider. Based on leadership experience, tactical awareness, and international success, Sunil Kumar Malik looks like the strongest candidate to become India's vice-captain for the 2026 Asian Games. His defensive leadership, calm temperament, and unmatched captaincy record make him the ideal deputy as India aims to defend its Asian Games gold medal in Japan.