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New Delhi. The Asian Games 2026, hosted by Japan, is going to start from September 19. This time a 768-member Indian contingent will participate in the competition, which includes 503 players. Athletes from 45 countries will compete for medals in 43 different sports. Many big names will be seen in action in the Indian team, from young cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi to star shooter Manu Bhakar.

In the history of Asian Games, India has got the most success in athletics. Indian athletes have so far won 283 medals in athletics, including 85 gold. India's performance in Kabaddi, wrestling and shooting has also been excellent. However, this time India has suffered a big shock in the form of Neeraj Chopra.

India's 503 athletes will compete in 36 sports

In the Asian Games 2026, 503 athletes from India will compete in 36 different sports. Earlier, 492 players were included in the Indian squad, but after the order of the Sports Ministry, this number increased to 503.

These include 269 male and 234 female athletes. This time India is also going to make its debut in surfing in the Asian Games.

There will also be expectations of medals from PV Sindhu, who has won a medal in the Olympics twice, Mirabai Chanu, who has won gold in the Commonwealth Games, and the Indian cricket team.

Team India will go to Japan for the Asian Games under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer. Many young players have been given a chance in the team and special attention will be kept on 15 year old Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

Big expectations in hockey and kabaddi also

The Indian men's hockey team will enter the Asian Games with the intention of becoming champion for the fifth time. The women's hockey team would like to end the gold medal drought that has been going on since 1982.

India's record in Kabaddi has also been strong. The final matches of both men's and women's categories in the 2022 Asian Games were thrilling, but in the end India won the gold medal in both the events.

Neeraj Chopra will not be part of the Indian team

The biggest shock for India is Neeraj Chopra's exit from the Asian Games. Paris Olympics silver medalist Neeraj had suffered an ankle injury a few days ago. He was also out of the Diamond League Finals due to injury.

His absence could impact India's medal hopes in athletics, although there are many other strong contenders in the Indian contingent.

Doping controversy also dealt a blow

Before the start of the Asian Games, there has also been a change in the Indian team due to violation of doping rules. Wrestlers Mukul Dahiya and Dipanshu were removed from the team.

Shooter Gaurav Kumar was also dropped from the team after being found guilty of doping. In his place, Akash Bhardwaj has been included in the Indian team.

Women's cricket team will miss Jemima

The Indian women's cricket team has also suffered a big setback. Middle order batsman Jemimah Rodrigues will not be a part of the Indian team for the Asian Games. She is also not playing in the Asia Cup due to injury.

In such a situation, the women's cricket team will have to take the field with a better combination in his absence.

India had taken a big leap from 2018 to 2022

India's medal performance in the Asian Games has continuously improved. In 2018, India had won 70 medals, while in 2022, Indian players took a huge jump of 36 medals and won a total of 106 medals. These included 28 gold medals.

Now in 2026, the Indian team will try to further improve its previous performance. With the presence of young talent along with big players, India is hopeful of medals in many sports.