₹1.45 Crore Backing Raises Stakes for India’s Bid to Win the Thomas Cup Title
via Usta
NEW DELHI, INDIA - JANUARY 16: Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen competes against Lin Chun-yi from Taiwan during the Mens Single match on the fourth day of Yonex Sunrise India Open 2026 at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex on January 16, 2026 in New Delhi, India.Photo by Sanchit Khanna/Hindustan Times Yonex Sunrise India Open 2026
The Sports Authority of India released ₹1.45 crore to fund the nation’s Thomas Cup title bid. This investment covers all logistical costs for the 34-member contingent, which has reached the quarterfinals by defeating Australia and Canada. The event began on April 24 and will run till May 3.
The funds under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) will cover almost all aspects of the team’s preparation and participation. This includes travel, accommodation, daily allowances, insurance, and other expenses related to the competition.
SAI's support system extends beyond funding. A contingent of coaches, physiotherapists, trainers, and masseurs is also involved, which shows a clear commitment to peak performance.
via Imago
NINGBO, CHINA - APRIL 12: Ayush Shetty of India competes in the Men s Singles Final match against Shi Yuqi of China on day 6 of Badminton Asia Championships 2026 at Ningbo Olympic Sports Center on April 12, 2026 in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province of China. PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxCHN Copyright: xVCGx 111634322611
An Indian contingent of 34 members consists of 20 players, five coaches, and nine support staff. The squad features a mix of veteran champions and rising talent.
The squad will be led by the likes of Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, and the doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, along with some new faces.
Team India has entered the competition with solid hopes, since they have already won it in 2022. Then, they defeated Indonesia. That win marked the beginning of India's presence in men's badminton.
Why the 2026 Thomas and Uber Cups matter more for Team India
This edition of the Thomas and Uber Cups becomes important for competing since badminton won't be in the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
India's long-term goals are still clear, especially since the country will host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. Strong performances now could set the stage for long-term success at home.
India has faced stiff competition in Group A, as India defeated Canada 4-1 and then Australia 5-0, and will next face defending champion China on April 29 to decide the group winner.
The Uber Cup team, which includes both well-known stars and up-and-coming players, will also get the same structured help as they get ready to play Denmark, Ukraine, and China in their group.
What are your thoughts on India's progress? Tell us in the comments.
Read more at the Ace Badminton Community!
Written by
Chitrak Mukherjee
Edited by
Rudra Dubey