Sport · India Bureau
India eyes record Asian Games medal haul with 500-strong squad
India is poised to achieve its best-ever medal tally at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, with a contingent of nearly 500 athletes competing across multiple sports. Cricket's inclusion among medal events and strong performances from established champions position the nation for significant success.
LSN India ·
India's delegation to the 2026 Asian Games represents one of the largest athletic contingents the nation has ever sent to the continental event, with nearly 500 competitors spanning numerous disciplines. The expanded squad size reflects India's growing sporting infrastructure and competitive depth across multiple medal-winning categories.
Cricket's elevation to medal status at the Asian Games offers India a significant opportunity to bolster its overall tally. With a strong domestic cricket ecosystem and proven international track record, the sport is expected to be among India's primary sources of medals at Aichi-Nagoya.
Beyond cricket, India's medal hopes rest substantially on established champions and rising talents in individual and team sports. Athletes like Manu Bhaker and other decorated performers are anticipated to carry India's competitive ambitions across shooting, badminton, athletics, and other traditional strongholds.
The substantial size of India's contingent underscores the nation's broader strategic commitment to Asian Games success. With enhanced preparation, training infrastructure, and athlete development programs, officials anticipate surpassing India's previous medal benchmarks at the continental championships.
The 2026 Asian Games represent a crucial opportunity for India to consolidate its status as a regional sporting powerhouse and demonstrate measurable progress in its athletic capabilities.