The Indian contingent made a lasting impression at the Asian Games 2023, winning a remarkable haul of 107 medals. This included a record-breaking 28 gold medals, along with 38 silver medals and 41 bronze medals. India came close to reaching the 100-medal mark before the final day of competition, and with victories in men’s and women’s kabaddi, men’s cricket, and men’s doubles badminton, they ended the Asiad on a high note.
In contrast, Pakistan could only secure 3 medals at the Asian Games 2023, with one silver and two bronze. The bronze medals were earned in kabaddi and shooting, while the silver medal was obtained in the men’s team squash event, where they were defeated by India in a hard-fought final.
The Indian men’s kabaddi team successfully reclaimed their Asian Games title, defeating defending champions Iran 33-29 in a controversial final that was temporarily suspended. After an hour of arguments, India emerged victorious.
The women’s kabaddi team also had a nail-biting victory, defeating Chinese Taipei 26-25 in a dramatic final to secure India’s 100th medal.
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty made history by winning India’s first-ever badminton gold medal at the Asian Games. They secured a straight-game victory over South Korea’s Choi Solgyu and Kim Wonho. Satwik and Chirag, ranked number 3 in the world, continued their impressive form after winning the Asian championships earlier this year.
This win also marked India’s first medal in men’s doubles badminton in 41 years, since Leroy D’sa and Pradeep Gandhe won a bronze in 1982.
The Indian men’s cricket team claimed the gold medal in their Asian Games debut. The final against Afghanistan was called off due to rain, and India, being seeded higher, was declared the winner.
Afghanistan was 112 for 5 in 18.2 overs when the rain interrupted the match at the Zhejiang University of Technology Cricket Field, and the game never resumed.
These impressive performances at the Asian Games 2023 showcased India’s sporting talent and marked a historic achievement for the country.
(With PTI inputs)