Top 10 Volleyball Players In India In 2023

Volleyball is one of the most enthralling sports on the planet. India has had the opportunity to meet some of its most recognized volleyball stars thanks to the emergence of international volleyball leagues and competitions such as those administered by the FIVB (Federation Internationale de Volleyball).

Here is the list of the top 10 volleyball players in India in 2023.

1. Jimmy George

Jimmy George's impact as an Indian volleyball pioneer is unrivaled. George rose to notoriety as the first Indian to play professional club volleyball in Italy, having been born in Kerala in 1955. His extraordinary abilities earned him the moniker "Black Pearl." George's achievements, which included four consecutive All India Inter-University Championship crowns and a bronze medal at the 1986 Asian Games, catapulted him to notoriety in Indian sports history. Tragically, he died in a vehicle accident in Italy in 1987, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.

2. Cyril Vellore

Cyril Vellore, a former captain of India's men's national volleyball team, was instrumental in bringing India to a bronze medal at the Asian Games in Seoul in 1986. Vellore, who is from Kerala, was a noteworthy performer because of his spectacular spiking and blocking talents. His on-court leadership and contributions to many international games, including the South Asian Games and Asian Cup, cemented his reputation as one of India's best volleyball players.

3. A. Palanisamy

A. Palanisamy's aggressive playing style earned him the nickname "Black Panther." Palanisamy's outstanding performance at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta, where he was awarded Asia's best player, represented a watershed moment in Indian volleyball history. His skill as an attacker and dedication to the sport earned him the first Arjuna Award for volleyball in 1961.

4. Balwant Singh Sagwal

Balwant Singh Sagwal's enormous 6'6" height made him a powerful presence on the floor. During the 1960s and 1970s, he was instrumental in Punjab's success in national championships. In 1972, his world-class attacking abilities earned him the Arjuna Award. Sagwal's reputation is strongly established in Indian volleyball history, having represented India in multiple Asian Games and national championships.

5. Abdul Basith

Abdul Basith, former captain of India's men's national volleyball team, was admired not just for his on-court abilities but also for his humility and sportsmanship. Basith led India to a bronze medal at the Asian Games in 1986, an important achievement for Indian volleyball. In 1989, he received the coveted Arjuna Award for his achievements.

6. Nirmal Kaur Saini

Nirmal Kaur Saini's contributions to Indian women's volleyball are immeasurable. As captain of the Indian women's national volleyball team, she was instrumental in India's bronze medal victory at the Asian Games in 1986. Her devotion and leadership inspired a new generation of female athletes. Her legacy was honored with the Arjuna Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award given after her death.

7. Karthik Madhu

Karthik Madhu's meteoric rise as a young volleyball star illustrates Indian volleyball's bright future. Madhu's skills as a middle-blocker have drawn attention as he leads the Kochi Blue Spikers in the Prime Volleyball League (PVL). His accomplishments in many national and international events, including gold in the South Asian Games, demonstrate his potential as a volleyball legend.

8. Ashwal Rai

Ashwal Rai's development as a talented middle-blocker in Indian volleyball portends a bright future. His participation in international games and Indian Volleyball League teams, as well as his reputation as an outstanding blocker, makes him a player to keep an eye on. Rai epitomizes the changing face of Indian volleyball, with the potential of many more accomplishments to come.

9. Ramavtar Singh Jakhar

Ramavtar Singh Jakhar's rise from international volleyball player to chairperson of the Volleyball Federation of India demonstrates his dedication to the sport. His dedication to the sport continues as he assumes administrative duties, helping to shape the future of Indian volleyball.

10. Muthusamy Appavu

Muthusamy Appavu's position as a setter in Indian volleyball emphasizes the significance of strategic play. His ability to orchestrate the game and guide teams has won him a spot among India's greatest setters. Appavu's contributions reflect the variety of skills that characterize Indian volleyball's advancement.