Avinash Sable may skip 2026 Commonwealth Games after knee injury
India's top steeplechaser Avinash Sable has admitted he is still uncertain about competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury. The 30-year-old made it clear that he would rather skip the event than participate without being at his best.
Speaking to Sportstar, Sable stressed that full fitness remains his priority, especially with the Commonwealth Games approaching fast.
"If everything goes well, then I feel I can be in the shape I was in (four years ago). But if everything doesn't go well, if I'm not fully fit, then even if I qualify for the Indian team, I'd rather skip the Commonwealth Games. I don't want to go to the Commonwealth Games just to participate," Sable said.
He also provided an update on his recovery and current fitness levels.
"I returned to training in January this year. Earlier this month I went to Ooty for some high-altitude training, but I felt a lot of tightness in my body after. I felt I was lacking strength, so I came to IIS to improve. Right now I'm still not at 100 per cent. I think I'm at about 70-80 percent of where I was," he added.
Sable's cautious approach reflects the long road back he has faced since his injury, with the focus firmly on regaining peak condition rather than rushing into competition.
Sable's setback dates back to July 2025 during the Monaco Diamond League, where a fall during the race led to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his right knee.
The injury required surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period, effectively disrupting his 2025 season. Since returning to training in January 2026, Sable has been gradually building back towards competition fitness, though he admits he is still short of his peak.
The challenge has been particularly evident in the steeplechase discipline, where repeated landings after hurdles continue to cause discomfort, slowing his progress.
Sable's immediate target is to assess whether he can reach competitive standards in time for the major events this year. The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow are scheduled from July 23 to August 2, while the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya will take place from September 19 to October 4.
Four years ago, Sable made history by winning a silver medal in the 3000m steeplechase at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, becoming the first Indian to achieve the feat. That performance set a high benchmark, one he is not willing to compromise.
For now, his participation in Glasgow remains uncertain, with fitness and performance standards taking priority. The Asian Games, with a slightly longer timeline, could offer a more realistic target if his recovery continues on the right track.
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