Big Names Out Of Frame: India’s Asian Games Archery Squad Moves To A New Guard

For many fans, seeing two of Indian archery’s most recognisable faces left out is a bittersweet moment. At the same time, federations and coaches have been under pressure to back current form and mental match readiness, especially after near misses at past multi sport events where India fell short on the podium despite high expectations.  

Selection Story Behind The Misses  

Deepika and Atanu have both had phases of outstanding form but have also seen dips, injuries and intense competition from younger archers pushing through national camps. The final trials, internal rankings and consistency under pressure appear to have tilted the scales towards other contenders who have recently delivered stronger scores and international results.  

New Look Squad And What It Signals  

The chosen squad leans more on archers who have been peaking over the last season, including those who have impressed at World Cups, Asian meets and domestic ranking tournaments. For the federation, sending this group to the Asian Games is a signal that no place is permanent, and that India wants to build a deeper bench rather than rely on a couple of star names.  

Emotional Fallout And The Road Ahead  

For Deepika and Atanu, missing out on a high profile event like the Asian Games is a tough blow, especially after years spent as the face of Indian archery. Yet their experience, discipline and training routines can still influence the system whether as senior competitors trying to mount a comeback, or as mentors guiding younger shooters through the mental side of elite sport.  

Archery Squad Talking Points  

1. Deepika Kumari and Atanu Das miss out on India’s 2026 Asian Games squad  
2. Selectors back recent form and trial performance over past reputation  
3. Younger, in form archers get the nod after strong domestic and international scores  
4. Move signals a tougher, merit based selection culture in Indian archery  
5. Veterans still have room to contribute as competitors, leaders and mentors  

Sources: Contemporary Indian sports reporting, archery selection commentary, and general background on Deepika Kumari, Atanu Das and India’s Asian Games preparation