Asian Games 2023 medal tally: India's strong contingent in Hangzhou aims for medal glory
Asian Games 2023, hosted in Hangzhou, China. The event officially commenced on September 23 and will run until October 8.
Originally slated for 2022, the quadrennial sports spectacle was postponed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
India is optimistic about its performance, building on its success at the Jakarta 2018 Games, where a 570-strong Indian squad secured an impressive 70 medals, including 16 gold, 23 silver, and 31 bronze. With an increased contingent size this year, expectations for an even higher medal count are running high.
Historically, athletics has been the primary source of India's medal success at the Asian Games, contributing 254 medals out of the total 672.
In Hangzhou 2023, track and field events will once again take the spotlight, with India fielding its largest-ever contingent of 68 athletes.
The Indian athletics squad boasts renowned names such as Neeraj Chopra, the reigning world, Olympic, and Asian Games champion in men's javelin throw. Avinash Sable, a silver medalist in the Commonwealth Games men's 3000m steeplechase, and Jyothi Yarraji, a sensation in women's hurdles, will also be competing.
In a historic move, India is participating in cricket at the Asian Games for the first time, featuring both men's and women's teams.
Full representation will also be seen in football and hockey.
The boxing team, led by world champion Nikhat Zareen and Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain, along with the wrestling team, featuring Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia and Antim Panghal, are strong contenders for medals. The shooting squad, with talents like Manu Bhaker and Rudrankksh Patil, is also expected to shine.
The presence of weightlifter Mirabai Chanu and badminton star PV Sindhu, both Olympic
