India has announced a six-member men’s 4x400m relay squad as the team prepares for a crucial outing at the Open Relay Carnival in Chandigarh.
With World Relays 2026 qualification on the line, the selection signals both intent and urgency, as Indian athletics looks to close a narrow gap in global standings.
The squad features Rajesh Ramesh (45.26s), Manu TS (45.96s), Amoj Jacob (45.99s), Vishal TK (45.12s), Dharamveer (46.61s), and Nohal Joel (46.69s). The mix brings together proven relay performers and emerging depth, offering flexibility in team composition ahead of a defining race.
Fine Margins Define Qualification Battle
India currently sits 27th in the World Relays standings with a best time of 3:03.67. To break into the top 24 and secure qualification, the team needs to clock 3:03.42 or faster a difference of just 0.25 seconds.
While that margin appears minimal, in the 4x400m relay it demands near-perfect execution across all four legs. Each athlete will need to deliver close to or below their season-best timings, while baton exchanges and race strategy become equally decisive.
The Chandigarh meet provides the first opportunity this season to attempt that mark, making it one of the most important early competitions for Indian relay prospects.
Core Strength Built Around Experience
At the heart of the squad lies a strong core of experienced quarter-milers. Rajesh Ramesh, one of India’s most consistent performers in recent years, brings both speed and reliability with a personal best of 45.26 seconds. His ability to handle pressure situations makes him a strong candidate for either the opening or anchor leg.
Amoj Jacob and Manu TS further strengthen the middle order. Both athletes have consistently clocked sub-46-second timings and have prior relay experience at international events. Their familiarity with pacing and positioning in relay races adds stability to the lineup.
Vishal TK, the fastest among the group on paper with a 45.12-second run last season, is a key inclusion. Although he is yet to open his outdoor season this year, his presence offers a significant boost in terms of raw speed and potential impact.
Depth Adds Tactical Flexibility
The inclusion of Dharamveer and Nohal Joel provides additional depth, ensuring that the team has multiple options to experiment with combinations. Both athletes have recorded times in the mid-46-second range, making them valuable contributors in training and backup scenarios. Having six athletes in the squad allows the coaching staff to test different permutations, assess baton exchanges, and identify the most effective quartet for high-pressure races.
Execution Will Be Key
In the 4x400m relay, individual speed is only one part of the equation. Unlike shorter relays, the event demands not just explosive pace but also rhythm, endurance, and strategic positioning.
The first leg is critical in establishing lane position, while the second and third legs often determine race control during the break to the inside lane. The anchor leg, meanwhile, requires both speed and composure to either defend a lead or chase down opponents.
For India, the focus will be on maintaining even splits across all four legs. A cumulative average of approximately 45.8 seconds per athlete would be required to breach the 3:03.42 qualification mark.
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The Open Relay Carnival in Chandigarh will serve as a key assessment platform. Beyond the final timing, selectors will closely evaluate baton exchanges, race discipline, and the ability of athletes to handle competitive pressure early in the season.
Since several athletes are yet to open their outdoor campaigns, this race will also provide insights into current form and fitness levels. Early-season performances often set the tone for the rest of the year, particularly in a qualification-driven cycle.
Building Towards Major Championships
The significance of this relay extends beyond World Relays qualification. With the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games scheduled later in the year, India is aiming to build a relay unit capable of consistent sub-3:03 performances.
Historically, the Indian men’s 4x400m team has been a strong contender at the Asian level, regularly featuring on the podium. However, bridging the gap at the global level requires incremental improvements in both speed and execution.
The current squad, with multiple athletes capable of running under 46 seconds, represents one of the more competitive groups in recent years. The challenge lies in translating individual capabilities into a cohesive team performance.
As the athletes take to the track in Chandigarh, the objective is clear deliver a performance that meets or exceeds the qualification standard. With margins so fine, every aspect of the race will matter, from the start reaction to the final stride. The selection reflects a balance of experience, speed, and depth, but the outcome will ultimately depend on execution under race conditions.
If India can breach the 3:03.42 mark, it will mark a significant step forward in their relay ambitions, opening the door to greater exposure and competition at the global level.
For now, all eyes will be on Chandigarh—a race where fractions of a second could define the trajectory of India’s 4x400m season.
