A formidable 655-member Indian contingent has taken the stage at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, the People’s Republic of China. This prestigious sporting event, in its 19th edition, officially kicked off on September 23 and is set to conclude on October 8.
Originally slated for 2022 but postponed due to the challenges posed by COVID-19, this edition promises to be exceptional, with India aiming to surpass its best-ever performance from Jakarta 2018. In the previous edition, a 570-strong Indian squad secured a remarkable haul of 70 medals, including 16 gold, 23 silver, and 31 bronze. With an even larger contingent this time, expectations are high for an impressive medal tally.
Here’s the Asian Games 2023: India’s medals tally by sport
Sport | Gold | Silver | Bronze | Total |
Shooting | 1 | 1 | 3 | 5 |
Rowing | 0 | 2 | 3 | 5 |
Cricket | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Throughout the history of the Asian Games, India’s prowess in athletics has consistently shone, contributing to a significant portion of the country’s 672 total medals, with an impressive 254 medals to their credit. Once again, track and field events are at the forefront of India’s focus in Hangzhou 2023, with a record-breaking contingent of 68 athletes—the largest representation from India in any sport.
The Indian athletics squad boasts star athletes such as Neeraj Chopra, the reigning world, Olympic, and Asian Games champion in men’s javelin throw, Avinash Sable, silver medallist in Commonwealth Games men’s 3000m steeplechase, and Jyothi Yarraji, a sensation in women’s hurdles.
This year marks a historic occasion as India is fielding cricket teams for the first time at the Asian Games, with both men’s and women’s teams participating. Additionally, football and hockey will see full representation by India.
India’s strong contenders for medals also include the boxing team, led by world champion Nikhat Zareen and Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain, as well as the wrestling team featuring Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia and Antim Panghal. The shooting squad, with talents like Manu Bhaker and Rudrankksh Patil, is poised to make a significant impact.
Renowned weightlifter Mirabai Chanu and badminton star PV Sindhu, both Olympic medal winners, are set to showcase their prowess in Hangzhou, alongside archery world champions Aditi Gopichand Swami and Ojas Pravin Deotale.
Furthermore, Hangzhou offers not only medals but also 74 Paris 2024 Olympic quotas across various disciplines, further elevating the significance of this competition.
As of now, India has already secured a commendable 11 medals at the Asian Games 2023, including two gold, three silver, and six bronze medals, marking a fantastic start to the competition.
🔥285