India Gears Up for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan

The 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, will see India competing across various sports from September 19 to October 4. With a strong contingent, including defending champions in cricket and kabaddi, India aims to build on its past successes. Key athletes like PV Sindhu and Mirabai Chanu will lead the charge, while the boxing team looks to continue its winning streak from the Commonwealth Games. The event schedule includes crucial competitions in athletics, badminton, and more, promising an exciting showcase of talent and sportsmanship.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 00:00 IST

Overview of the 2026 Asian Games

The 2026 Asian Games are set to take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4. India is preparing to send a strong contingent of athletes across various sports, aiming to improve upon its past performances, as reported by a leading sports website.

Event Schedule and Key Competitions

Action at this multi-sport event will kick off on September 10, ahead of the opening ceremony. India's participation will commence with teqball on September 17, followed by the women's cricket team competing against Japan in the quarter-finals on September 18.

Defending Champions and Star Athletes

India will be defending its titles in both men's and women's cricket, as well as kabaddi. The men's hockey team will also enter the Games as the reigning champions.

Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu will lead the badminton squad, with competitions starting at the Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium on September 20.

Mirabai Chanu, an Olympic medalist, will head the five-member weightlifting team, while Manu Bhaker, another double Olympic medalist, will be a key figure among the shooters. Aman Sehrawat, who won a bronze medal at Paris 2024, will represent India in wrestling.

Boxing and Athletics Highlights

The boxing team is coming off a successful Commonwealth Games, where they secured 10 medals, including seven golds and three silvers. Notable boxers like Lovlina Borgohain and Commonwealth champion Sakshi Chaudhary will be competing in Aichi-Nagoya.

Athletics will also be a major focus, with over 70 Indian athletes expected to participate in events scheduled from September 24 to 29.

India's Ambitious Goals

With a roster filled with Olympic and Commonwealth Games medalists, India aims to deliver a strong performance across various disciplines and defend its titles in crucial team sports during the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

Detailed Schedule for Key Events

Here’s a brief look at the schedule for some of the events:

Archery: September 26 to October 3

Badminton: September 20 to September 25

Boxing: September 21 to October 2

Athletics: September 24 to September 29

Cricket: Women's quarter-final on September 18, Men's quarter-final on September 28.