The People's Republic of China is hosting the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, starting September 23 to October 8. However, some events, including football, volleyball, table tennis, and cricket, will commence before the official date.

The People's Republic of China is hosting the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, starting September 23 to October 8. However, some events, including football, volleyball, table tennis, and cricket, will commence before the official date. Live streams of the events are available on TV and mobile apps, and the live coverage will begin on September 19. China will host athletes from 45 Asian countries, participating in 40 sports (61 disciplines). Indian athletes will participate in 39 sports in the 19th edition of the quadrennial event, initially scheduled in September 2022 but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Asian Games 2023 Live Streaming Here's everything you need to know about the live streaming details for Asian Games 2023. Where can I watch Asian Games 2023 Live on TV in India? Sony Sports Network will telecast the Asian Games 2023 live in India on these channels: Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD, Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 3 HD, Sony Sports Ten 4, Sony Sports Ten 4 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5, and Sony Sports Ten 5 HD TV. ALSO READ | Asian Games 2023: Complete cricket schedule, fixtures, teams, live-streaming details | All you need to know How to watch the Asian Games 2023 Live in India? SonyLIV app and website will broadcast the Asian Games 2023 live in India. Who are the Indian athletes participating in the Asian Games 2023? India's star athlete and reigning Asian Games and Olympic champion, Neeraj Chopra, will headline India's 655-member Asian Games squad. Athletics alone has 35 male and 33 female players, making India's largest contingent for any sport in Hangzhou. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Harmanpreet Kaur will lead Indian men's and women's cricket teams, making their Asian Games debut in Hangzhou. Deputy Smriti Mandhana is expected to lead the Indian women’s cricket team at the Asian Games in the absence of Harmanpreet Kaur. Olympic medalists Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, and wrestler Bajrang Punia will also compete at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. HS Prannoy, Kidambi Srikanth, and PV Sindhu will compete in the badminton singles, aiming to win India's first gold medal in badminton at the Asian Games. Asia's record holder in the shot put, Tajinder Singh Toor, will defend his Asian Games title in Hangzhou. Furthermore, Swapna Barman, women's heptathlon champion, and Jinson Johnson, men's 1500m champion, will be in action in the Asian Games 2023. Will the Asian Games 2023 offer quotas in the Paris Olympics? The 19th Asian Games offers 74 Paris Olympic quotas: six in archery, ten in artistic swimming, 34 in boxing, two in breaking, two in hockey, ten in modern pentathlon, six in sailing, two in tennis, and two in water polo. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Asian Games 2023 LIVE Streaming: Where, Where & How to watch the 19th Asian Games 2023 Live streaming in India

Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony Live Streaming: The 19th edition of the Asian Games 2023 is all set to kick off tomorrow (Sept 23) in Hangzhou, China. The event will see many sports events, including cricket.&nbsp;

India had sent a 655-member contingent to compete in 41 disciplines. 
&nbsp; 
Till now, four sports events have already been held on Tuesday (Sept 19), in which India also participated. A total of four sports events were held, including football and volleyball.

However, the opening ceremony for the Asian Games 2023 is scheduled for Saturday (Sept 23). The ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium, which is capable of accommodating up to 80,000 people. The stadium was completed in 2018 and is mostly used for soccer matches, features a retractable roof, a circular LED screen, and a natural grass field.

The executive producer of the opening ceremony in an interview with the CCTV+ reporter said, "The ceremony will portray the ancient and modern Hangzhou as well as the bond between the participating nations. It is a brilliant artwork of Chinese artists, our task is polishing ideas and presenting the thoughts through graphical motion."

<h2>When will the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony take place?</h2>

The Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 23 at 5:30 pm IST.

<h2>Where will the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony take place?</h2>

The opening ceremony for the Asian Games 2023 will take place at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium in Hangzhou, China.

<h2>Where can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony Live on TV in India?</h2>

The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Asian Games 2023 live in India on these channels: Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD, Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 3 HD, Sony Sports Ten 4, Sony Sports Ten 4 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5, and Sony Sports Ten 5 HD TV.&nbsp;

<h2>How can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening Ceremony Live in India?</h2>

Fans can watch the opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2023 live on SonyLIV app and website.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's how you can watch the opening ceremony of Asia Cup 2023 live in your country:</h2>

China- CCTV

Japan- TBS

India- Sony LIV (Sony Sports Network)

Singapore- MediaCorp Channel 5 and mewatch.sg&nbsp;

Indonesia- MNCTV, RCTI, iNews TV, and Vision+&nbsp;

Republic of Korea- KBS, MBC, SBS, and TV Chosun&nbsp;

Philippines- OneSports

Malaysia- RTM and Astro&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony Live Streaming: The 19th edition of the Asian Games 2023 is all set to kick off tomorrow (Sept 23) in Hangzhou, China. The event will see many sports events, including cricket.

Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony Live Streaming: The 19th edition of the Asian Games 2023 is all set to kick off tomorrow (Sept 23) in Hangzhou, China. The event will see many sports events, including cricket. India had sent a 655-member contingent to compete in 41 disciplines. Till now, four sports events have already been held on Tuesday (Sept 19), in which India also participated. A total of four sports events were held, including football and volleyball. However, the opening ceremony for the Asian Games 2023 is scheduled for Saturday (Sept 23). The ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium, which is capable of accommodating up to 80,000 people. The stadium was completed in 2018 and is mostly used for soccer matches, features a retractable roof, a circular LED screen, and a natural grass field. The executive producer of the opening ceremony in an interview with the CCTV+ reporter said, "The ceremony will portray the ancient and modern Hangzhou as well as the bond between the participating nations. It is a brilliant artwork of Chinese artists, our task is polishing ideas and presenting the thoughts through graphical motion." When will the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony take place? The Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 23 at 5:30 pm IST. Where will the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony take place? The opening ceremony for the Asian Games 2023 will take place at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium in Hangzhou, China. Where can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony Live on TV in India? The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Asian Games 2023 live in India on these channels: Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD, Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 3 HD, Sony Sports Ten 4, Sony Sports Ten 4 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5, and Sony Sports Ten 5 HD TV. How can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening Ceremony Live in India? Fans can watch the opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2023 live on SonyLIV app and website. Here's how you can watch the opening ceremony of Asia Cup 2023 live in your country: China- CCTV Japan- TBS India- Sony LIV (Sony Sports Network) Singapore- MediaCorp Channel 5 and mewatch.sg Indonesia- MNCTV, RCTI, iNews TV, and Vision+ Republic of Korea- KBS, MBC, SBS, and TV Chosun Philippines- OneSports Malaysia- RTM and Astro (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony Live Streaming: Where to watch Asian Games Live in India & other countries

Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony: <meta name="uuid" content="uuidWbL8NhNaMa7B" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The 19th edition of the Asian Games will kickstart with an extravagant opening ceremony on September 23. Sports enthusiasts worldwide can witness the glory of Asia's biggest sporting event, featuring 40 different sports and a large pool of talented and amateur athletes from 45 countries across Asia and the Middle East.

Although some sports events began on September 19, the Asian Games opening ceremony on September 23 will officially mark the start of the tournament, elevating the craze among fans. It will celebrate the legacy of the Asiad.

The ceremony's objective is to represent the rich culture and heritage of the host nation and showcase the spirit of sports among participating countries.

Asian Games 2023, scheduled for 2022 but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is one of the most awaited sporting events of the year. Asian Games only happen&nbsp;once every four years. New Delhi hosted the first version of the Asian Games in 1951. The 18th Asian Games were&nbsp;held in Indonesia in 2018.

Here's everything you need to know about the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony.&nbsp;

<h2>Asian Games 2023: Opening Ceremony</h2>

The Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centres Stadium will host the ground-rocking Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony. Completed in 2018, the stadium can accommodate around 80,000 people. Besides the prestigious opening ceremony, the stadium will host upcoming soccer matches.

ALSO READ |<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2023-live-streaming-where-to-watch-the-19th-asian-games-live-in-india-check-details-here-637923" target="_blank">&nbsp;Asian Games 2023 Live Streaming: Where to watch the 19th Asian Games Live in India; Check details here</a>

Executive Producer of the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony told CCTV+, "The ceremony will portray the Ancient and Modern Hangzhou and the bond between the participating nations. It is a brilliant artwork of Chinese artists. Our task is polishing ideas and presenting the thoughts through graphical motion."

He also called the upcoming opening ceremony a "visual feast using brilliant electronic fireworks." It will be the first digital ignition ceremony in Asian Games' history.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will also attend the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony.&nbsp;

Athletes participating in the Asian Games 2023 can qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. While Hong Kong will send 680 athletes to various sports events throughout the tournament, India will send 655 athletes participating across 39 sports.

India's men's hockey team captain, Harmanpreet Singh, and ace boxer Lovlina Borgohain will carry the Indian flag in the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony.

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidWbL8NhNaMa7B" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

<h2>When and where is the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony?</h2>

The Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium will host the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony on September 23 at 05:30 pm IST.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony take place?</h2>

The opening ceremony for the Asian Games 2023 will take place at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium in Hangzhou, China.

<h2>Where can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony Live on TV in India?</h2>

The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Asian Games 2023 live in India on these channels: Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD, Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 3 HD, Sony Sports Ten 4, Sony Sports Ten 4 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5, and Sony Sports Ten 5 HD TV.&nbsp;

<h2>How can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening Ceremony Live in India?</h2>

Fans can watch the opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2023 live on SonyLIV app and website.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's how you can watch the opening ceremony of Asia Cup 2023 live in your country:</h2>

China- CCTV

Japan- TBS

India- Sony LIV (Sony Sports Network)

Singapore- MediaCorp Channel 5 and mewatch.sg&nbsp;

Indonesia- MNCTV, RCTI, iNews TV, and Vision+&nbsp;

Republic of Korea- KBS, MBC, SBS, and TV Chosun&nbsp;

Philippines- OneSports

Malaysia- RTM and Astro&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony: The 19th edition of the Asian Games will kickstart with an extravagant opening ceremony on September 23. Sports enthusiasts worldwide can witness the glory of Asia's biggest sporting event, featuring 40 different sports and a large pool of talented and amateur athletes from 45 countries across Asia and the Middle East.

Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony: The 19th edition of the Asian Games will kickstart with an extravagant opening ceremony on September 23. Sports enthusiasts worldwide can witness the glory of Asia's biggest sporting event, featuring 40 different sports and a large pool of talented and amateur athletes from 45 countries across Asia and the Middle East. Although some sports events began on September 19, the Asian Games opening ceremony on September 23 will officially mark the start of the tournament, elevating the craze among fans. It will celebrate the legacy of the Asiad. The ceremony's objective is to represent the rich culture and heritage of the host nation and showcase the spirit of sports among participating countries. Asian Games 2023, scheduled for 2022 but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is one of the most awaited sporting events of the year. Asian Games only happen once every four years. New Delhi hosted the first version of the Asian Games in 1951. The 18th Asian Games were held in Indonesia in 2018. Here's everything you need to know about the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony. Asian Games 2023: Opening Ceremony The Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centres Stadium will host the ground-rocking Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony. Completed in 2018, the stadium can accommodate around 80,000 people. Besides the prestigious opening ceremony, the stadium will host upcoming soccer matches. ALSO READ | Asian Games 2023 Live Streaming: Where to watch the 19th Asian Games Live in India; Check details here Executive Producer of the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony told CCTV+, "The ceremony will portray the Ancient and Modern Hangzhou and the bond between the participating nations. It is a brilliant artwork of Chinese artists. Our task is polishing ideas and presenting the thoughts through graphical motion." He also called the upcoming opening ceremony a "visual feast using brilliant electronic fireworks." It will be the first digital ignition ceremony in Asian Games' history. Chinese President Xi Jinping will also attend the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony. Athletes participating in the Asian Games 2023 can qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. While Hong Kong will send 680 athletes to various sports events throughout the tournament, India will send 655 athletes participating across 39 sports. India's men's hockey team captain, Harmanpreet Singh, and ace boxer Lovlina Borgohain will carry the Indian flag in the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony. When and where is the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony? The Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium will host the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony on September 23 at 05:30 pm IST. Where will the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony take place? The opening ceremony for the Asian Games 2023 will take place at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium in Hangzhou, China. Where can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony Live on TV in India? The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Asian Games 2023 live in India on these channels: Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 1 HD, Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 3, Sony Sports Ten 3 HD, Sony Sports Ten 4, Sony Sports Ten 4 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5, and Sony Sports Ten 5 HD TV. How can you watch Asian Games 2023 opening Ceremony Live in India? Fans can watch the opening ceremony of the Asian Games 2023 live on SonyLIV app and website. Here's how you can watch the opening ceremony of Asia Cup 2023 live in your country: China- CCTV Japan- TBS India- Sony LIV (Sony Sports Network) Singapore- MediaCorp Channel 5 and mewatch.sg Indonesia- MNCTV, RCTI, iNews TV, and Vision+ Republic of Korea- KBS, MBC, SBS, and TV Chosun Philippines- OneSports Malaysia- RTM and Astro (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony: Check date, time, venue, live streaming details and all you need to know

Chinese President Xi Jinping will declare the Asian Games open at a glittering ceremony in Hangzhou on Saturday, kickstarting a sporting behemoth that boasts more athletes than the Olympics.

After being delayed by a year due to China's strict zero-Covid regime,&nbsp;more than 12,000 competitors from 45 nations across Asia and the Middle East are in the eastern city to compete in 40 sports.

Xi is scheduled to open proceedings officially in one of the country's most prosperous regions, in front of invited guests including Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Assad -- on his first visit to China since war erupted in Syria in 2011 -- will join leaders from ally Cambodia, Kuwait, and Nepal, among others at Hangzhou's Olympic stadium, state media said.

The Games are "likely to be China's post-pandemic soft power exercise in the fully packed stadium with the presence of political and business leaders in Asia," Jung-Woo Lee, sport policy expert at the University of Edinburgh, told AFP.

But the Games have already been rocked by a row between New Delhi and China, with a trip to Hangzhou by India's sports minister cancelled on Friday.

It followed three women martial arts fighters from the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh claiming they were denied accreditation, a move China disputed.

The&nbsp;northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh is claimed almost in full by Beijing, which calls it "South Tibet".

China's status as a sporting destination took a severe hit during the first three years of the pandemic, when snap lockdowns and travel rules saw almost all international events cancelled in the country.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-odi-series-india-draw-first-blood-in-pre-world-cup-showdown-gill-shami-impress-638671">IND vs AUS ODI Series: India draw first blood in Pre-World Cup showdown; Gill, Shami shine</a>

<h2>Open to all</h2>

The hosts are overwhelming favourites to top the medals table, boosting a huge nearly 900-strong delegation, with Japan and South Korea battling for second.

North Korea has sent a nearly 200-strong team, ending nearly three years of isolation from the global sporting arena.

They will fight for medals in 40 sports from athletics, swimming and football to bridge, along with a host of regional specialities including dragon boat racing, Chinese martial art wushu and kabaddi, a popular contact sport on the Indian subcontinent.

Nine sports, among them boxing, break dancing and tennis, will serve as Asia qualifiers for next year's Paris Olympics.

Olympic Council of Asia honorary life vice-president Wei Jizhong said having so many sporting disciplines was all about giving opportunity to as many athletes as possible.

"We are open to all. This means our Games are not concentrated only for elite sportspeople," he said.

"When developing countries' athletes get medals their people are happy, their government is happy, and they support sport. Sport has a high social position. So I think&nbsp;this policy of OCA is successful."

The Games will be staged at 54 venues -- 14 newly constructed -- mostly in Hangzhou but also extending to cities as far afield as Wenzhou, 300 kilometres (180 miles) south.

The centrepiece is the "Big Lotus" Olympic stadium with a capacity of up to 80,000 where athletics and the opening and closing ceremonies will be staged.

Hangzhou, a city of 12 million people an hour's bullet train from Shanghai, is the unofficial home of China's tech industry and the Games will feature driverless buses, robot dogs and facial recognition.

It will be the first cashless Games, with Hangzhou a cashless city.

Organisers are also touting their environmental credentials, with a low-carbon policy in place that will see venues powered by 'green' electricity.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Chinese President Xi Jinping will declare the Asian Games open at a glittering ceremony in Hangzhou on Saturday, kickstarting a sporting behemoth that boasts more athletes than the Olympics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will declare the Asian Games open at a glittering ceremony in Hangzhou on Saturday, kickstarting a sporting behemoth that boasts more athletes than the Olympics. After being delayed by a year due to China's strict zero-Covid regime, more than 12,000 competitors from 45 nations across Asia and the Middle East are in the eastern city to compete in 40 sports. Xi is scheduled to open proceedings officially in one of the country's most prosperous regions, in front of invited guests including Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Assad -- on his first visit to China since war erupted in Syria in 2011 -- will join leaders from ally Cambodia, Kuwait, and Nepal, among others at Hangzhou's Olympic stadium, state media said. The Games are "likely to be China's post-pandemic soft power exercise in the fully packed stadium with the presence of political and business leaders in Asia," Jung-Woo Lee, sport policy expert at the University of Edinburgh, told AFP. But the Games have already been rocked by a row between New Delhi and China, with a trip to Hangzhou by India's sports minister cancelled on Friday. It followed three women martial arts fighters from the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh claiming they were denied accreditation, a move China disputed. The northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh is claimed almost in full by Beijing, which calls it "South Tibet". China's status as a sporting destination took a severe hit during the first three years of the pandemic, when snap lockdowns and travel rules saw almost all international events cancelled in the country. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS ODI Series: India draw first blood in Pre-World Cup showdown; Gill, Shami shine Open to all The hosts are overwhelming favourites to top the medals table, boosting a huge nearly 900-strong delegation, with Japan and South Korea battling for second. North Korea has sent a nearly 200-strong team, ending nearly three years of isolation from the global sporting arena. They will fight for medals in 40 sports from athletics, swimming and football to bridge, along with a host of regional specialities including dragon boat racing, Chinese martial art wushu and kabaddi, a popular contact sport on the Indian subcontinent. Nine sports, among them boxing, break dancing and tennis, will serve as Asia qualifiers for next year's Paris Olympics. Olympic Council of Asia honorary life vice-president Wei Jizhong said having so many sporting disciplines was all about giving opportunity to as many athletes as possible. "We are open to all. This means our Games are not concentrated only for elite sportspeople," he said. "When developing countries' athletes get medals their people are happy, their government is happy, and they support sport. Sport has a high social position. So I think this policy of OCA is successful." The Games will be staged at 54 venues -- 14 newly constructed -- mostly in Hangzhou but also extending to cities as far afield as Wenzhou, 300 kilometres (180 miles) south. The centrepiece is the "Big Lotus" Olympic stadium with a capacity of up to 80,000 where athletics and the opening and closing ceremonies will be staged. Hangzhou, a city of 12 million people an hour's bullet train from Shanghai, is the unofficial home of China's tech industry and the Games will feature driverless buses, robot dogs and facial recognition. It will be the first cashless Games, with Hangzhou a cashless city. Organisers are also touting their environmental credentials, with a low-carbon policy in place that will see venues powered by 'green' electricity. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

President Xi Jinping to open Asian Games as China targets sporting glory

Watch Vikram Chandra in an exclusive conversation with Grandmaster Rameshbabu ‘Pragg’ Praggnanandhaa on his recent Chess World Cup success and his preparations for the upcoming Asian Games.

Praggnanandhaa: 'Focused on Asian Games Gold'

Japan began their bid for a first Asian Games men's football gold since 2010 with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday, as Syria and Afghanistan pulled out.

Japan were cruising 2-0 at half-time after goals by Teppei Yachida and Kotaro Uchino, before Qatar hit back in the 79th minute through substitute Abdulla Al Sulaiti.

But just as the Qataris threatened to grab a point in the group-round match, defender Taichi Yamasaki popped up to make the game safe for Japan in the closing minutes.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-nice-job-to-do-england-skipper-jos-buttler-on-informing-jason-roy-about-his-world-cup-squad-omission-637962">'Not a nice job to do' England skipper Jos Buttler on informing Jason Roy about his World Cup squad omission</a>

The Games in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou do not officially open until Saturday, but several sports are already under way.

On Tuesday, the first day of action, South Korea launched their quest for a third men's football gold in a row with a 9-0 demolition of Kuwait.

The men's football competition has been hit by withdrawals, however, with Afghanistan and Syria pulling out on Wednesday from Group C.

That means group opponents Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are into the last 16 without kicking a ball.

India were thrashed 5-1 by hosts China on Tuesday but coach Igor Stimac said he was just pleased to be able to field a team.

"I'm happy because I see that some teams pulled out at the last minute (because) they couldn't get enough players," said the former international defender for Croatia.

"It's a big problem for the whole tournament now."

The Asian Games are outside FIFA's international window so clubs are not compelled to release players.

Asian Games football teams are made up of under-23 squads but they can have three overage players.

Football, beach volleyball, cricket, modern pentathlon, rowing, sailing and volleyball will all take place at the Games on Thursday.&nbsp;

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Japan began their bid for a first Asian Games men's football gold since 2010 with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday, as Syria and Afghanistan pulled out. Japan were cruising 2-0 at half-time after goals by Teppei Yachida and Kotaro Uchino, before Qatar hit back in the 79th minute through substitute Abdulla Al Sulaiti.

Japan began their bid for a first Asian Games men's football gold since 2010 with a 3-1 win over Qatar on Wednesday, as Syria and Afghanistan pulled out. Japan were cruising 2-0 at half-time after goals by Teppei Yachida and Kotaro Uchino, before Qatar hit back in the 79th minute through substitute Abdulla Al Sulaiti. But just as the Qataris threatened to grab a point in the group-round match, defender Taichi Yamasaki popped up to make the game safe for Japan in the closing minutes. Also Read: 'Not a nice job to do' England skipper Jos Buttler on informing Jason Roy about his World Cup squad omission The Games in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou do not officially open until Saturday, but several sports are already under way. On Tuesday, the first day of action, South Korea launched their quest for a third men's football gold in a row with a 9-0 demolition of Kuwait. The men's football competition has been hit by withdrawals, however, with Afghanistan and Syria pulling out on Wednesday from Group C. That means group opponents Hong Kong and Uzbekistan are into the last 16 without kicking a ball. India were thrashed 5-1 by hosts China on Tuesday but coach Igor Stimac said he was just pleased to be able to field a team. "I'm happy because I see that some teams pulled out at the last minute (because) they couldn't get enough players," said the former international defender for Croatia. "It's a big problem for the whole tournament now." The Asian Games are outside FIFA's international window so clubs are not compelled to release players. Asian Games football teams are made up of under-23 squads but they can have three overage players. Football, beach volleyball, cricket, modern pentathlon, rowing, sailing and volleyball will all take place at the Games on Thursday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games: Japan beat Qatar in opening fixture with aim to win first football gold since 2010

The Indian women’s team has advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Games after rain played spoilsport in their contest against Malaysia women’s team on Thursday, September 21. After ending their innings at 173/2, Malaysia’s innings did not get going as rain played spoilsport. The officials then consulted both the captains as there was no sign of improvement in the weather and conditions. Ultimately, the contest was called off and India advanced to the last four courtesy of being the higher-seeded team at the Asian Games.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rain 🌧️ has the final say after India's terrific batting display! 
 
India march to the semifinals in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsianGames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsianGames</a> 👏👏 
 
Scorecard ▶️<a href="https://t.co/c5tw7bD88x">https://t.co/c5tw7bD88x</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAtAG22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAtAG22</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wrb3GeAStw">pic.twitter.com/Wrb3GeAStw</a>
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen/status/1704725801915252842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>India advance</h2>

Playing in their first match, the Indian team received a bye for the initial phase and directly entered the quarterfinals of the Asian Games. Led by Smriti Mandhana in the absence of suspended skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, the India team was asked to bat first after Malaysia won the toss. Shafali Verma smashed 67 runs off 39 deliveries to set the pace while she suffered a reported injury scare.

The Indian team initially lost skipper Mandhana for 27 in the powerplay, but it was Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali who laid the foundation for a big score. Jemimah remained unbeaten on 47 and stitched an 86-run stand for the second wicket with Shafali before the latter was dismissed. Richa Ghosh would then join hands with Jemimah as they helped India reach 173/2 in the 20 overs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-a-brief-history-of-all-india-vs-pakistan-matches-in-odi-world-cups-637997">In Pics: A brief history of all India vs Pakistan matches in ODI World Cups</a>

Earlier, rain had interrupted the Indian innings and was the feature again in Malaysia’s innings as well. Having started the innings, the play was halted again in the first over with the score 1-0 in two balls. The drizzle continued after that, forcing the match to be called off.

Technically the march ended in a draw due to uneven playing conditions while India advanced for being the higher seed.

India will next take the field on Sunday in the semifinal clash with an eye on the gold medal contest. Interestingly, India’s progress into the next round guarantees regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur to participate in the Asian Games, as she will either play in the gold medal match (if India win the semifinal) or the bronze medal match (if India lose in the semifinal). She was initially suspended for two games by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for abrupt behaviour during the Bangladesh tour.

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The Indian women’s team has advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Games after rain played spoilsport in their contest against Malaysia women’s team on Thursday, September 21.

The Indian women’s team has advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Games after rain played spoilsport in their contest against Malaysia women’s team on Thursday, September 21. After ending their innings at 173/2, Malaysia’s innings did not get going as rain played spoilsport. The officials then consulted both the captains as there was no sign of improvement in the weather and conditions. Ultimately, the contest was called off and India advanced to the last four courtesy of being the higher-seeded team at the Asian Games. Rain 🌧️ has the final say after India's terrific batting display! India march to the semifinals in the #AsianGames 👏👏 Scorecard ▶️https://t.co/c5tw7bD88x#IndiaAtAG22 pic.twitter.com/Wrb3GeAStw — BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) September 21, 2023 × India advance Playing in their first match, the Indian team received a bye for the initial phase and directly entered the quarterfinals of the Asian Games. Led by Smriti Mandhana in the absence of suspended skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, the India team was asked to bat first after Malaysia won the toss. Shafali Verma smashed 67 runs off 39 deliveries to set the pace while she suffered a reported injury scare. The Indian team initially lost skipper Mandhana for 27 in the powerplay, but it was Jemimah Rodrigues and Shafali who laid the foundation for a big score. Jemimah remained unbeaten on 47 and stitched an 86-run stand for the second wicket with Shafali before the latter was dismissed. Richa Ghosh would then join hands with Jemimah as they helped India reach 173/2 in the 20 overs. ALSO READ | In Pics: A brief history of all India vs Pakistan matches in ODI World Cups Earlier, rain had interrupted the Indian innings and was the feature again in Malaysia’s innings as well. Having started the innings, the play was halted again in the first over with the score 1-0 in two balls. The drizzle continued after that, forcing the match to be called off. Technically the march ended in a draw due to uneven playing conditions while India advanced for being the higher seed. India will next take the field on Sunday in the semifinal clash with an eye on the gold medal contest. Interestingly, India’s progress into the next round guarantees regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur to participate in the Asian Games, as she will either play in the gold medal match (if India win the semifinal) or the bronze medal match (if India lose in the semifinal). She was initially suspended for two games by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for abrupt behaviour during the Bangladesh tour. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games: Smriti Mandhana-led Team India advance to semifinal after rain plays spoilsport in Hangzhou

A day after Team India won&nbsp;Asia Cup 2023,&nbsp;the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 18)&nbsp;announced&nbsp;India's squad for their next assignment, the&nbsp;three-match ODI series versus Australia at home. KL Rahul will lead in the first two games whereas Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will feature only in&nbsp;the series finale. The squad sees the return of R Ashwin.&nbsp;The series opener will be held on Friday (September 22) in at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali.

The squad has been shared in two parts -- for the opening two games and the series decider. Interestingly, a lot of regulars have been rested with Rahul to lead the second-stringed side in the initial two ODIs. With Axar Patel picking up an injury during the Asia Cup, R Ashwin and Washington Sundar are part of all the three ODIs whereas Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who is set to lead India in the Asian Games starting on September 23 -- is&nbsp;part of the Rahul-led squad.

Meanwhile, Rohit, regular vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp;Kohli will come back for the third and final ODI. In Hardik's absence, Ravindra Jadeja has been named as Rahul's deputy.

For First two ODIs vs Australia:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C &amp; WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

For third and final ODI vs Australia:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel (if fit), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj.

The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav will be eager to make the most of their chances in the upcoming 50-over games, with main focus on the former's fitness. Meanwhile, Ashwin and Sundar will also be desperate to force the Indian team management to make some last-minute changes in the CWC 2023 squad -- which can be done by all teams until September 28 -- with Axar injured. The latter has, however, been added for the third ODI (subject to fitness).&nbsp;

Mohali and Indore will host the first two games&nbsp;on September 22 and 24,&nbsp;respectively. The series finale will take place in Rajkot&nbsp;on September 27 (Wednesday).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kohli-or-bumrah-pak-great-wasim-akram-names-who-will-be-rohit-led-indias-main-weapon-in-cwc-2023-637142">Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023</a>

Recently, Cricket Australia also named a strong squad for the upcoming India series. Pat Cummins and Steve Smith have&nbsp;marked their&nbsp;return after missing the just-concluded South Africa series, in the African nation (which the Aussies lost 2-3).

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

It is to be noted that the last India-Australia ODIs was held early this year in India, when Steve Smith &amp; Co. won 2-1. If India win the series, they will enter the World Cup as the No. 1 ranked side.

The series is India's last before the CWC 2023 edition. The mega event kicks off in Ahmedabad, India on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand.

India will meet Australia in their tournament openers on October 8 in Chennai.

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A day after Team India won Asia Cup 2023, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 18) announced India's squad for their next assignment, the three-match ODI series versus Australia at home.

A day after Team India won Asia Cup 2023, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 18) announced India's squad for their next assignment, the three-match ODI series versus Australia at home. KL Rahul will lead in the first two games whereas Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will feature only in the series finale. The squad sees the return of R Ashwin. The series opener will be held on Friday (September 22) in at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. The squad has been shared in two parts -- for the opening two games and the series decider. Interestingly, a lot of regulars have been rested with Rahul to lead the second-stringed side in the initial two ODIs. With Axar Patel picking up an injury during the Asia Cup, R Ashwin and Washington Sundar are part of all the three ODIs whereas Ruturaj Gaikwad -- who is set to lead India in the Asian Games starting on September 23 -- is part of the Rahul-led squad. Meanwhile, Rohit, regular vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav and Kohli will come back for the third and final ODI. In Hardik's absence, Ravindra Jadeja has been named as Rahul's deputy. For First two ODIs vs Australia: KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. For third and final ODI vs Australia: Rohit Sharma (C), Hardik Pandya, (Vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel (if fit), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav will be eager to make the most of their chances in the upcoming 50-over games, with main focus on the former's fitness. Meanwhile, Ashwin and Sundar will also be desperate to force the Indian team management to make some last-minute changes in the CWC 2023 squad -- which can be done by all teams until September 28 -- with Axar injured. The latter has, however, been added for the third ODI (subject to fitness). Mohali and Indore will host the first two games on September 22 and 24, respectively. The series finale will take place in Rajkot on September 27 (Wednesday). Also read: Not Kohli or Bumrah! Pak great Wasim Akram names who will be Rohit-led India's main weapon in CWC 2023 Recently, Cricket Australia also named a strong squad for the upcoming India series. Pat Cummins and Steve Smith have marked their return after missing the just-concluded South Africa series, in the African nation (which the Aussies lost 2-3). Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa It is to be noted that the last India-Australia ODIs was held early this year in India, when Steve Smith & Co. won 2-1. If India win the series, they will enter the World Cup as the No. 1 ranked side. The series is India's last before the CWC 2023 edition. The mega event kicks off in Ahmedabad, India on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand. India will meet Australia in their tournament openers on October 8 in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns

The Indian Rowing team got off to an excellent start at the Asian Games in China on Wednesday as the men's and women's teams showed a lot of determination to secure a gritty finish.

Arjun Lal Jat and Arvind Singh, competing in Lightweight Men's Double Sculls, displayed their determination by securing the second position with a time of 6:27.45.

Meanwhile, compatriots Satnam Singh and Parminder Singh also finished second&nbsp;in their respective Heat with a time of 6:27.01. With this, they both qualify for the Repechage where they will compete for Final A berths. The duo ended up behind China's Zhiyu Liu and Zhang Liang.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-brazilian-footballer-to-visit-indias-kolkata-before-durga-puja-in-october-find-itinerary-details-637659">Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details</a>

Meanwhile, the women's rowing team also opened their account at Asiad on a positive note as Kiran and Anshika Bharti, the Indian Lightweight Women's Double Sculls duo, secured the spot in heat by clocking a time of 7:27.57. They will next compete in the Repechage round for a place in the final.

In the Men's Doubles coxless, India's Babu Lal Yadav and Lekh Ram finished third by registering a timing of 6:42.59.

The Indian sailing team is set to participate in 12 out of the 14 sailing events on the roster of the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou.

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The Indian Rowing team got off to an excellent start at the Asian Games in China on Wednesday as the men's and women's teams showed a lot of determination to secure a gritty finish.

The Indian Rowing team got off to an excellent start at the Asian Games in China on Wednesday as the men's and women's teams showed a lot of determination to secure a gritty finish. Arjun Lal Jat and Arvind Singh, competing in Lightweight Men's Double Sculls, displayed their determination by securing the second position with a time of 6:27.45. Meanwhile, compatriots Satnam Singh and Parminder Singh also finished second in their respective Heat with a time of 6:27.01. With this, they both qualify for the Repechage where they will compete for Final A berths. The duo ended up behind China's Zhiyu Liu and Zhang Liang. ALSO READ | Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details Meanwhile, the women's rowing team also opened their account at Asiad on a positive note as Kiran and Anshika Bharti, the Indian Lightweight Women's Double Sculls duo, secured the spot in heat by clocking a time of 7:27.57. They will next compete in the Repechage round for a place in the final. In the Men's Doubles coxless, India's Babu Lal Yadav and Lekh Ram finished third by registering a timing of 6:42.59. The Indian sailing team is set to participate in 12 out of the 14 sailing events on the roster of the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games: Indian Rowing team starts campaign on a positive note in Hangzhou

Five historic moments in Asian Games for India featuring Sachin Nag, Neeraj Chopra's triumphs

Seasoned Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar took to social media to vent out her frustration and disappointment due to the uncertainty looming over the selection of the gymnastics team for the upcoming Asian Games 2023, to kick off on September 23&nbsp;in Hangzhou, China.

On Tuesday (Aug 15), Dipa detailed a "demotivating and discouraging" turn of events, claiming that she is fearing missing out on the forthcoming mega event despite topping the selection trials conducted by the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) in July.

On July 26, the GFI named a nine-member gymnastics team, including Dipa for the Asian Games following the trials conducted in Bhubaneshwar. However, the twist came when&nbsp;the sports ministry reportedly informed the GFI that only two of the nine qualified gymnasts met the selection criteria.

According to the rule set on July 10, "the performance of the sportspersons should not be less than the performance achieved by the 8th position holder of the 2018 Asian Games in measurable sports in individual events during the last 12 months prior to the commencement of the event".

Despite being at the top of the selection trials, with an all-round score of 47.05, Dipa's name went missing from the final list of athletes.

As the country is busy celebrating another year of Independence, the Rio Olympics star&nbsp; shared her disappointment in a series of posts on X, earlier known as Twitter.

"On this #IndependenceDay, I am using my freedom of speech to discuss recent events that have proven to be very demotivating and discouraging. The #AsianGames2023, an event I have eagerly anticipated for the past two years, looks further than it is."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-pv-sindhu-lead-wishes-among-sports-fraternity-as-india-celebrates-77th-independence-day-625633">Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu lead wishes among sports fraternity as India celebrates 77th Independence Day</a>

"To my surprise, despite topping the national trials and meeting the @IndiaSports selection criteria, it appears that I will be deprived of the opportunity to participate in the @19thAGofficial.

"Worse still, the reasons behind this decision are unknown to me and have not been communicated officially. Instead, my fellow gymnasts and I are left to read about our exclusion from the Games in the news and I simply don’t know what to make of it," she added.

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On this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay</a>, I am using my freedom of speech to discuss recent events that have proven to be very demotivating and discouraging. 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsianGames2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsianGames2023</a>, an event I have eagerly anticipated for the past two years, looks further than it is. (1/N)
— Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DipaKarmakar/status/1691343951578738688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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To my surprise, despite topping the national trials and meeting the <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> selection criteria, it appears that I will be deprived of the opportunity to participate in the <a href="https://twitter.com/19thAGofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@19thAGofficial</a>. (2/N)
— Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DipaKarmakar/status/1691343953545801728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Worse still, the reasons behind this decision are unknown to me and have not been communicated officially. Instead, my fellow gymnasts and I are left to read about our exclusion from the Games in the news and I simply don’t know what to make of it. 
(3/N)
— Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DipaKarmakar/status/1691343957459116032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The hard work and sacrifice that goes into preparing for major games is rarely appreciated and instead met with uncertainty and deafening silence from <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a>. All I ask is for the selection criteria to be applied fairly and consistently across all sports..4/N
— Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DipaKarmakar/status/1691343962718769152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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And request that the correct information be conveyed to us so that we don't live in uncertainty. 
In the meanwhile, I owe it to my country to continue my training and I am hopeful that I will be joining <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreTeamIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WeAreTeamIndia</a> in Hangzhou next month. Jai hind! <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a>
— Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DipaKarmakar/status/1691343966627938304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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It is to be noted that 30-year-old Dipa had put in a request to the&nbsp;SAI for relaxation in the eligibility criteria.

Citing setbacks such as two ACL tears in 2017 and 2019, limited opportunities to compete during the pandemic followed by a 21-month suspension due to a doping violation, the athlete put in a request to get some leeway.

However, no formal&nbsp;communication has been received&nbsp;from the Sports Ministry and SAI.

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Seasoned Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar took to social media to vent out her frustration and disappointment due to the uncertainty looming over the selection of the gymnastics team for the upcoming Asian Games 2023, to kick off on September 23 in Hangzhou, China.

Seasoned Indian gymnast Dipa Karmakar took to social media to vent out her frustration and disappointment due to the uncertainty looming over the selection of the gymnastics team for the upcoming Asian Games 2023, to kick off on September 23 in Hangzhou, China. On Tuesday (Aug 15), Dipa detailed a "demotivating and discouraging" turn of events, claiming that she is fearing missing out on the forthcoming mega event despite topping the selection trials conducted by the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) in July. On July 26, the GFI named a nine-member gymnastics team, including Dipa for the Asian Games following the trials conducted in Bhubaneshwar. However, the twist came when the sports ministry reportedly informed the GFI that only two of the nine qualified gymnasts met the selection criteria. According to the rule set on July 10, "the performance of the sportspersons should not be less than the performance achieved by the 8th position holder of the 2018 Asian Games in measurable sports in individual events during the last 12 months prior to the commencement of the event". Despite being at the top of the selection trials, with an all-round score of 47.05, Dipa's name went missing from the final list of athletes. As the country is busy celebrating another year of Independence, the Rio Olympics star shared her disappointment in a series of posts on X, earlier known as Twitter. "On this #IndependenceDay, I am using my freedom of speech to discuss recent events that have proven to be very demotivating and discouraging. The #AsianGames2023, an event I have eagerly anticipated for the past two years, looks further than it is." Also read: Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu lead wishes among sports fraternity as India celebrates 77th Independence Day "To my surprise, despite topping the national trials and meeting the @IndiaSports selection criteria, it appears that I will be deprived of the opportunity to participate in the @19thAGofficial. "Worse still, the reasons behind this decision are unknown to me and have not been communicated officially. Instead, my fellow gymnasts and I are left to read about our exclusion from the Games in the news and I simply don’t know what to make of it," she added. On this #IndependenceDay, I am using my freedom of speech to discuss recent events that have proven to be very demotivating and discouraging. The #AsianGames2023, an event I have eagerly anticipated for the past two years, looks further than it is. (1/N) — Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) August 15, 2023 × To my surprise, despite topping the national trials and meeting the @IndiaSports selection criteria, it appears that I will be deprived of the opportunity to participate in the @19thAGofficial. (2/N) — Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) August 15, 2023 × Worse still, the reasons behind this decision are unknown to me and have not been communicated officially. Instead, my fellow gymnasts and I are left to read about our exclusion from the Games in the news and I simply don’t know what to make of it. (3/N) — Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) August 15, 2023 × The hard work and sacrifice that goes into preparing for major games is rarely appreciated and instead met with uncertainty and deafening silence from @Media_SAI and @IndiaSports. All I ask is for the selection criteria to be applied fairly and consistently across all sports..4/N — Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) August 15, 2023 × And request that the correct information be conveyed to us so that we don't live in uncertainty. In the meanwhile, I owe it to my country to continue my training and I am hopeful that I will be joining @WeAreTeamIndia in Hangzhou next month. Jai hind! @PMOIndia @rashtrapatibhvn — Dipa Karmakar (@DipaKarmakar) August 15, 2023 × It is to be noted that 30-year-old Dipa had put in a request to the SAI for relaxation in the eligibility criteria. Citing setbacks such as two ACL tears in 2017 and 2019, limited opportunities to compete during the pandemic followed by a 21-month suspension due to a doping violation, the athlete put in a request to get some leeway. However, no formal communication has been received from the Sports Ministry and SAI. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gymnast Dipa Karmakar fears not being part of Asian Games 2023, vents out frustration on recent events

India Senior Men's team Head Coach Igor Stimac on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, announced a 22-member squad for the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, to be held from September 19 to October 7, 2023.

The India Men’s team are placed alongside hosts China PR, Bangladesh, and Myanmar in Group A. There are 23 teams, who have been divided into six groups. Group A, B, C, E and F have four teams each while Group D has three teams.

Twice Asian Games champions India are participating in the football event of the continental games for the first time after nine years.

The Indian men's football team has enjoyed success since the beginning of this year. Recently the Blue Tigers were crowned winners of the SAFF Championship 2023, ninth in their history, after Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made a game-changing save in the penalty shootout, to register a 5-4 victory. Throughout their campaign, they didn't lose a single game.

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Earlier this year they also won the Tri-Nation Cup and the Intercontinental Cup against Kyrgyzstan and Lebanon respectively.

Following their success, they also moved to the 99th position in the latest FIFA rankings. Under the management of Igor Stimac and the leadership of Sunil Chhetri India will be keen to achieve success in the Asian Games.

<h2>Indian football squad for Hangzhou Asian Games:</h2>

Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Gurmeet Singh, Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem.

Defenders: Sandesh Jhingan, Anwar Ali, Narender Gahlot, Lalchungnunga, Akash Mishra, Roshan Singh, Ashish Rai.

Midfielders: Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Apuia Ralte, Amarjit Singh Kiyam, Rahul KP, Naorem Mahesh Singh.

Forwards: Siva Sakthi Narayanan, Rahim Ali, Aniket Jadhav, Vikram Partap Singh, Rohit Danu, Sunil Chhetri.

Head Coach: Igor Stimac.

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India Senior Men's team Head Coach Igor Stimac on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, announced a 22-member squad for the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, to be held from September 19 to October 7, 2023.

India Senior Men's team Head Coach Igor Stimac on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, announced a 22-member squad for the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, to be held from September 19 to October 7, 2023. The India Men’s team are placed alongside hosts China PR, Bangladesh, and Myanmar in Group A. There are 23 teams, who have been divided into six groups. Group A, B, C, E and F have four teams each while Group D has three teams. Twice Asian Games champions India are participating in the football event of the continental games for the first time after nine years. The Indian men's football team has enjoyed success since the beginning of this year. Recently the Blue Tigers were crowned winners of the SAFF Championship 2023, ninth in their history, after Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made a game-changing save in the penalty shootout, to register a 5-4 victory. Throughout their campaign, they didn't lose a single game. ALSO READ | IN PICS | Top Moments from Ashes 2023 featuring Jonny Bairstow runout, Stuart Broad's retirement Earlier this year they also won the Tri-Nation Cup and the Intercontinental Cup against Kyrgyzstan and Lebanon respectively. Following their success, they also moved to the 99th position in the latest FIFA rankings. Under the management of Igor Stimac and the leadership of Sunil Chhetri India will be keen to achieve success in the Asian Games. Indian football squad for Hangzhou Asian Games: Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Gurmeet Singh, Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem. Defenders: Sandesh Jhingan, Anwar Ali, Narender Gahlot, Lalchungnunga, Akash Mishra, Roshan Singh, Ashish Rai. Midfielders: Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Apuia Ralte, Amarjit Singh Kiyam, Rahul KP, Naorem Mahesh Singh. Forwards: Siva Sakthi Narayanan, Rahim Ali, Aniket Jadhav, Vikram Partap Singh, Rohit Danu, Sunil Chhetri. Head Coach: Igor Stimac. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games: Sunil Chhetri, Gurpreet Sandhu called up as India name strong football squad

The Delhi High Court, on Saturday, July 22, upheld the decision to give direct entry to wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat in India's Asian Games team. The Delhi HC gave the verdict on a petition filed by wrestlers Antim Phangal and Sujeet Kalkal.

Punia and Phogat were given the exemption by the the Indian Olympic Association-appointed ad-hoc committee following the wrestlers' demand of extending the trails by early August. The extension was sought due to the protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in which Punia and Phogat have extensive participation.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-harmanpreet-kaur-slams-umpiring-decision-as-bangladesh-avoid-series-defeat-in-thrilling-decider-618469">Harmanpreet Kaur slams umpiring decision as Bangladesh avoid series defeat in thrilling decider</a>

The ad-hoc committee provided the exemptions to defending Asian Games champions and reigning World Wrestling Championship medalist (both Punia and Phogat) as giving extension was not feasible due to the deadline of participant submission at the Asian Games. &nbsp;The exemption was given based on a specific clause in the WFI rule for the selection trials.

"Asian Games: The Selection Trials in all weight categories are mandatory, however, the Selection Committee will have the discretion to select the iconic players like medallists of Olympic / World Championship without trials provided recommendation by Chief Coach / Foreign Expert," reads the rule.

U-20 World Champion Antim Panghal and U-23 Asian Champion Sujeet Kalkal had moved to the Delhi HC on Wednesday, July 19 after Punia and Phogat were given direct entry to the Asian Games team without trials. The two petitioners, however, continued with their trials to be part of the Indian wrestling contingent.&nbsp;

As for the current results, Panghal won her freestyle 53kg trials finals would be a reserve for her weight category at the Asian Games.

Notably, many famous Indian wrestlers including Punia and Phogat protested extensively against the WFI chief for molesting the female wrestlers. Delhi Police had already filed a chargesheet in case and had framed charges against the WFI chief.&nbsp; 
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The Delhi High Court, on Saturday, July 22, upheld the decision to give direct entry to wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat in India's Asian Games team. The Delhi HC gave the verdict on a petition filed by wrestlers Antim Phangal and Sujeet Kalkal.

The Delhi High Court, on Saturday, July 22, upheld the decision to give direct entry to wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat in India's Asian Games team. The Delhi HC gave the verdict on a petition filed by wrestlers Antim Phangal and Sujeet Kalkal. Punia and Phogat were given the exemption by the the Indian Olympic Association-appointed ad-hoc committee following the wrestlers' demand of extending the trails by early August. The extension was sought due to the protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in which Punia and Phogat have extensive participation. Also Watch: Harmanpreet Kaur slams umpiring decision as Bangladesh avoid series defeat in thrilling decider The ad-hoc committee provided the exemptions to defending Asian Games champions and reigning World Wrestling Championship medalist (both Punia and Phogat) as giving extension was not feasible due to the deadline of participant submission at the Asian Games. The exemption was given based on a specific clause in the WFI rule for the selection trials. "Asian Games: The Selection Trials in all weight categories are mandatory, however, the Selection Committee will have the discretion to select the iconic players like medallists of Olympic / World Championship without trials provided recommendation by Chief Coach / Foreign Expert," reads the rule. U-20 World Champion Antim Panghal and U-23 Asian Champion Sujeet Kalkal had moved to the Delhi HC on Wednesday, July 19 after Punia and Phogat were given direct entry to the Asian Games team without trials. The two petitioners, however, continued with their trials to be part of the Indian wrestling contingent. As for the current results, Panghal won her freestyle 53kg trials finals would be a reserve for her weight category at the Asian Games. Notably, many famous Indian wrestlers including Punia and Phogat protested extensively against the WFI chief for molesting the female wrestlers. Delhi Police had already filed a chargesheet in case and had framed charges against the WFI chief. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi High Court upholds trial exemptions given to Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat for Asian Games

On Tuesday (July 18),&nbsp;the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) ad-hoc panel surprised one and all as it granted direct entries into the Asian Games to Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat. The decision has not been well received. It has been taken without the consent of the national chief selectors and irked many other wrestlers and coaches.

Moreover, the WFI made it clear that&nbsp;trials will still take place for all six weight categories across the three styles of wrestling despite them already&nbsp;selecting the wrestlers for the men's freestyle 65kg and women's 53kg categories. After this big step, young wrestler Antim Panghal -&nbsp;who competes in the 53kg category -&nbsp;lashed out at the decision and questioned Vinesh's selection.

<h2>'Vinesh got entry despite not practising for the past year'</h2>

In a video, Panghal -- silver medallist in the senior Asian Championship -- stated, "Vinesh (Phogat) has been given direct entry for Asian Games despite that she has not been practised for past one year. I won the gold medal in the 2022 Junior World Championship. Even in the Commonwealth Games trial, I had a 3-3 bout with her. Then too, I was cheated. Should I quit wrestling? All I want is a fair trial."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-satwiksairaj-smashes-guinness-world-record-with-fastest-badminton-hits-during-korea-open-617095">Badminton: Satwiksairaj 'smashes' Guinness world record with fastest hits during Korea Open</a>

Further, Panghal reminded one and all of her recent feats and mentioned Vinesh has no significant achievement under her belt. "Last year, in the Junior World Championships, I won a gold medal and became the first woman wrestler from India to achieve this feat. In the 2023 Asian Championships, I won a silver medal, but Vinesh has no achievement to show in the last year. She was also injured," the 19-year-old pointed out.

<h2>'What is so special about Vinesh?'</h2>

Panghal further highlighted, "Sakshi Malik has also won an Olympic medal, she too is not being sent. What is so special about Vinesh&nbsp;that she is being sent? Just organise trials. I am not saying that I am the only one who can beat Vinesh. There are several other girls who can beat her."

She asserted, "When the CWG trials were taking place, I had bouts against her, then they (officials) cheated me. I said koi nahin (it's okay), I will try to qualify for the Olympics by going to the (Hangzhou) Asian Games. But now they are saying they will send Vinesh. This is not done. They are also saying that the one who goes for the Asian Games will also go for the World Championships. And, the one who wins a medal at the Worlds will go to the Olympics (in Paris). We have also been training hard for years. So, what about us?" In addition, Panghal said, "Should we leave wrestling? Tell us on what basis is she (Vinesh) being sent."

It is to be noted that Panghal has made heads turn of late with her performances. The teenager became India's U-20 World Champion in 2022 and clinched the silver medal at the senior Asian Championship early this year. Bajrang and Vinesh, on the other hand, have displayed exceptional performances in the past but&nbsp;their participation in international tournaments in the ongoing calendar year has been non-existent following their protest against WFI chief&nbsp;Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for sexual harassment.

The forthcoming Asian Games will commence on September 23 and conclude on October 08. They will take place in&nbsp;Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.

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On Tuesday (July 18), the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) ad-hoc panel surprised one and all as it granted direct entries into the Asian Games to Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat.

On Tuesday (July 18), the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) ad-hoc panel surprised one and all as it granted direct entries into the Asian Games to Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat. The decision has not been well received. It has been taken without the consent of the national chief selectors and irked many other wrestlers and coaches. Moreover, the WFI made it clear that trials will still take place for all six weight categories across the three styles of wrestling despite them already selecting the wrestlers for the men's freestyle 65kg and women's 53kg categories. After this big step, young wrestler Antim Panghal - who competes in the 53kg category - lashed out at the decision and questioned Vinesh's selection. 'Vinesh got entry despite not practising for the past year' In a video, Panghal -- silver medallist in the senior Asian Championship -- stated, "Vinesh (Phogat) has been given direct entry for Asian Games despite that she has not been practised for past one year. I won the gold medal in the 2022 Junior World Championship. Even in the Commonwealth Games trial, I had a 3-3 bout with her. Then too, I was cheated. Should I quit wrestling? All I want is a fair trial." Also Read: Badminton: Satwiksairaj 'smashes' Guinness world record with fastest hits during Korea Open Further, Panghal reminded one and all of her recent feats and mentioned Vinesh has no significant achievement under her belt. "Last year, in the Junior World Championships, I won a gold medal and became the first woman wrestler from India to achieve this feat. In the 2023 Asian Championships, I won a silver medal, but Vinesh has no achievement to show in the last year. She was also injured," the 19-year-old pointed out. 'What is so special about Vinesh?' Panghal further highlighted, "Sakshi Malik has also won an Olympic medal, she too is not being sent. What is so special about Vinesh that she is being sent? Just organise trials. I am not saying that I am the only one who can beat Vinesh. There are several other girls who can beat her." She asserted, "When the CWG trials were taking place, I had bouts against her, then they (officials) cheated me. I said koi nahin (it's okay), I will try to qualify for the Olympics by going to the (Hangzhou) Asian Games. But now they are saying they will send Vinesh. This is not done. They are also saying that the one who goes for the Asian Games will also go for the World Championships. And, the one who wins a medal at the Worlds will go to the Olympics (in Paris). We have also been training hard for years. So, what about us?" In addition, Panghal said, "Should we leave wrestling? Tell us on what basis is she (Vinesh) being sent." It is to be noted that Panghal has made heads turn of late with her performances. The teenager became India's U-20 World Champion in 2022 and clinched the silver medal at the senior Asian Championship early this year. Bajrang and Vinesh, on the other hand, have displayed exceptional performances in the past but their participation in international tournaments in the ongoing calendar year has been non-existent following their protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for sexual harassment. The forthcoming Asian Games will commence on September 23 and conclude on October 08. They will take place in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wrestling: 'Should I quit?' Antim Panghal reacts after Vinesh Phogat gets direct entry in Asian Games

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced a second-string squad for the upcoming Asian Games. With ICC ODI World Cup starting on October 5, a young Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad will take part in the regional multi-sports tournament. The BCCI handed a lot of fringe players their maiden call-up in the T20I side and Rinku Singh is one of them.

Rinku shot to fame during the last IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders when he smashed five sixes off the last five balls of the match to take his team home. Speaking to RevSportz on his selection, Rinku said he'll dedicate his India debut to his family who has watched his struggles from close quarters.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/at-2022-ipl-auction-they-promised-me-heartbroken-yuzvendra-chahal-on-not-getting-picked-by-rcb-616232">'At 2022 IPL auction, they promised me...': Heartbroken Yuzvendra Chahal on not getting picked by RCB</a>

“Everyone dreams to play for India, wear that jersey. I don’t think a lot about the future because the more you think, the more burden you put yourself under. I take life as one day at a time. But yes, whoever takes up professional sports wants to represent their country one day or the other,” Rinku said.

“I know for a fact that my family, my parents will be happier than me to see me wear the Indian jersey. They have been waiting for this for years now. They have seen my struggle, they have helped me, been with me through all my ups and downs. The day I don the jersey will be a day dedicated to them,” he added.

The southpaw also revealed how talking to former India skipper MS Dhoni during the IPL 2023 helped him.

"The chatter with Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) was really productive. He has also batted in similar numbers as I do – at 5 or 6 – and he has done it for the majority of his career and knows the position in and out. I simply asked him how to better my game, and his advice was very simple: You are batting really well. Continue whatever you have done so far,” said Rinku.

The Asian Games start September 23 with the cricket tournament starting a day later.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced a second-string squad for the upcoming Asian Games. With ICC ODI World Cup starting on October 5, a young Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad will take part in the regional multi-sports tournament.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced a second-string squad for the upcoming Asian Games. With ICC ODI World Cup starting on October 5, a young Indian team led by Ruturaj Gaikwad will take part in the regional multi-sports tournament. The BCCI handed a lot of fringe players their maiden call-up in the T20I side and Rinku Singh is one of them. Rinku shot to fame during the last IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders when he smashed five sixes off the last five balls of the match to take his team home. Speaking to RevSportz on his selection, Rinku said he'll dedicate his India debut to his family who has watched his struggles from close quarters. Also Read: 'At 2022 IPL auction, they promised me...': Heartbroken Yuzvendra Chahal on not getting picked by RCB “Everyone dreams to play for India, wear that jersey. I don’t think a lot about the future because the more you think, the more burden you put yourself under. I take life as one day at a time. But yes, whoever takes up professional sports wants to represent their country one day or the other,” Rinku said. “I know for a fact that my family, my parents will be happier than me to see me wear the Indian jersey. They have been waiting for this for years now. They have seen my struggle, they have helped me, been with me through all my ups and downs. The day I don the jersey will be a day dedicated to them,” he added. The southpaw also revealed how talking to former India skipper MS Dhoni during the IPL 2023 helped him. "The chatter with Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni) was really productive. He has also batted in similar numbers as I do – at 5 or 6 – and he has done it for the majority of his career and knows the position in and out. I simply asked him how to better my game, and his advice was very simple: You are batting really well. Continue whatever you have done so far,” said Rinku. The Asian Games start September 23 with the cricket tournament starting a day later. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'His advice was...,' Rinku Singh reveals MS Dhoni's words of wisdom after maiden India call up

The Women’s Selection Committee on Friday announced India’s squad for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou to be held from September 19 to October 8, 2023, at the Zhejiang University of Technology Pingfeng Cricket Field.

The women’s cricket competition will take place from September 19 to 28 2023 in a T20 format. Asian Games will take place in China this year from September 23 to October 8, 2023. Cricket will be featured in the multi-sport event. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead Team India in the Asian Games while star batter Smriti Mandhana will play the role of her deputy. Richa Ghosh and Uma Chetry will wear wicket-keeping gloves for Team India.

India have added five players -- Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque and Pooja Vastrakar -- to its standby list.

Cricket has been played only twice at the Asian Games. Both editions were not attended by the Indian cricket team.

For the men's team, the Asian Games cricket competition falls during a vital time period because India will host the ODI World Cup beginning on October 5.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2023-carlos-alcaraz-thumps-daniil-medvedev-to-clinch-final-berth-to-face-novak-djokovic-on-sunday-615756">Wimbledon 2023: Carlos Alcaraz thumps Daniil Medvedev to clinch final berth; to face Novak Djokovic on Sunday</a>

Two times, in 2010 and 2014, cricket was played at the Asian Games, however, India did not send a team on each occasion because of other commitments.

<h3>Team India (Senior Women) squad for Asian Games:</h3>

Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Devika Vaidya, Anjali Sarvani, Titas Sadhu, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Minnu Mani, Kanika Ahuja, Uma Chetry (wk) and Anusha Bareddy.

<h3>Standby list of players:</h3>

Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque and Pooja Vastrakar.

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The Women’s Selection Committee on Friday announced India’s squad for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou to be held from September 19 to October 8, 2023, at the Zhejiang University of Technology Pingfeng Cricket Field.

The Women’s Selection Committee on Friday announced India’s squad for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou to be held from September 19 to October 8, 2023, at the Zhejiang University of Technology Pingfeng Cricket Field. The women’s cricket competition will take place from September 19 to 28 2023 in a T20 format. Asian Games will take place in China this year from September 23 to October 8, 2023. Cricket will be featured in the multi-sport event. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead Team India in the Asian Games while star batter Smriti Mandhana will play the role of her deputy. Richa Ghosh and Uma Chetry will wear wicket-keeping gloves for Team India. India have added five players -- Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque and Pooja Vastrakar -- to its standby list. Cricket has been played only twice at the Asian Games. Both editions were not attended by the Indian cricket team. For the men's team, the Asian Games cricket competition falls during a vital time period because India will host the ODI World Cup beginning on October 5. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2023: Carlos Alcaraz thumps Daniil Medvedev to clinch final berth; to face Novak Djokovic on Sunday Two times, in 2010 and 2014, cricket was played at the Asian Games, however, India did not send a team on each occasion because of other commitments. Team India (Senior Women) squad for Asian Games: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Amanjot Kaur, Devika Vaidya, Anjali Sarvani, Titas Sadhu, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Minnu Mani, Kanika Ahuja, Uma Chetry (wk) and Anusha Bareddy. Standby list of players: Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Saika Ishaque and Pooja Vastrakar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Harmanpreet Kaur to lead Team India as BCCI announces women's squad for Asian Games

Batter Ruturaj Gaikwad is all set to lead Team India in the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games as the Men’s Selection Committee on Friday announced the&nbsp;Men in Blue squad for the tournament.&nbsp;Gaikwad has been appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the Asian Games while Yashasvi Jaiswal, who currently is in red-hot form and debuted in the first Test against West Indies, found a place in the squad.&nbsp;

The men’s cricket competition will take place from September 28 to October 8 in a T20 format.&nbsp;Asian Games will take place in China this year from September 23 to October 8, 2023. Cricket will be featured in the multi-sport event. &nbsp;

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NEWS 🚨- Team India (Senior Men) squad for 19th Asian Games: Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam…
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1679905293021609985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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However, veteran players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah will miss the Asian Games.&nbsp;

After a solid performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, Rinku Singh has been included in the Indian team for Asian Games. On the back of their fine IPL performances wicketkeeper-batters Jitesh Sharma and Prabhsimran Singh claimed a place in the squad.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harmanpreet-kaur-to-lead-team-india-as-bcci-announces-strong-squad-for-asian-games-615762">Harmanpreet Kaur to lead Team India as BCCI announces strong squad for Asian Games</a>

Gaikwad slammed 590 runs in 16 matches for CSK, while Jitesh and Rinku scored 309 and 474 runs for Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders respectively.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2023-carlos-alcaraz-thumps-daniil-medvedev-to-clinch-final-berth-to-face-novak-djokovic-on-sunday-615756">Wimbledon 2023: Carlos Alcaraz thumps Daniil Medvedev, to face Novak Djokovic in final on Sunday</a>

Shivam Dube who was the backbone of Chennai Super Kings' middle order batting (CSK) in the IPL 2023 has been recalled to the Indian team for Asian Games.&nbsp;

Watch | Is Novak Djokovic the G.O.A.T? | WION Sports

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Team India (Senior Men) squad for Asian Games: Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam Dube and Prabhsimran Singh (wk).

Standby list of players: Yash Thakur, Sai Kishore, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda and Sai Sudarsan.&nbsp;

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Batter Ruturaj Gaikwad is all set to lead Team India in the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games as the Men’s Selection Committee on Friday announced the Men in Blue squad for the tournament.

Batter Ruturaj Gaikwad is all set to lead Team India in the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games as the Men’s Selection Committee on Friday announced the Men in Blue squad for the tournament. Gaikwad has been appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the Asian Games while Yashasvi Jaiswal, who currently is in red-hot form and debuted in the first Test against West Indies, found a place in the squad. The men’s cricket competition will take place from September 28 to October 8 in a T20 format. Asian Games will take place in China this year from September 23 to October 8, 2023. Cricket will be featured in the multi-sport event. NEWS 🚨- Team India (Senior Men) squad for 19th Asian Games: Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam… — BCCI (@BCCI) July 14, 2023 × However, veteran players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah will miss the Asian Games. After a solid performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, Rinku Singh has been included in the Indian team for Asian Games. On the back of their fine IPL performances wicketkeeper-batters Jitesh Sharma and Prabhsimran Singh claimed a place in the squad. Also Read | Harmanpreet Kaur to lead Team India as BCCI announces strong squad for Asian Games Gaikwad slammed 590 runs in 16 matches for CSK, while Jitesh and Rinku scored 309 and 474 runs for Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders respectively. Also Read | Wimbledon 2023: Carlos Alcaraz thumps Daniil Medvedev, to face Novak Djokovic in final on Sunday Shivam Dube who was the backbone of Chennai Super Kings' middle order batting (CSK) in the IPL 2023 has been recalled to the Indian team for Asian Games. Watch | Is Novak Djokovic the G.O.A.T? | WION Sports × Team India (Senior Men) squad for Asian Games: Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam Dube and Prabhsimran Singh (wk). Standby list of players: Yash Thakur, Sai Kishore, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda and Sai Sudarsan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead Team India in Hangzhou Asian Games; Rinku Singh included

Indian wrestlers and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) were handed a major setback by the organisers of the Asian Games 2022 on Tuesday (July 11) after they rejected the request for an extension of the deadline to name contenders. The IOA had initially requested the Hangzhou Asian Games Organising Committee (HAGOC) to extend the deadline to submit the names of wrestlers participating in the continental event in September. The rejection of the request means that India will have to announce their wrestlers’ contingent for the Hangzhou Games by July 22.

<h2>India handed massive setback</h2>

The setback comes amid the turmoil in Indian wrestling in wake of sexual assault allegations and protests against its chief Brij Bhushan Singh.

India had requested the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) to extend the deadline to submit the names of wrestlers by August 5. With the rejection of the plea, the contingent will have to be named by July 22. Currently, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has been facing turmoil, which has seen the elections postponed.

"The Hangzhou Organising Committee has rejected the IOA's request for further extension. They conveyed it to the OCA, and the OCA has conveyed this decision to the IOA," an official source from the Indian Olympic Association revealed to PTI news agency.

Top wrestlers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and others have been protesting against the WFI chief and BJP Member of Parliament (MP) Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan since January. Serious allegations of sexual harassment and molestation have been put on the WFI chief and the protests have been going on.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-guys-know-theyll-get-selected-gavaskar-takes-an-indirect-dig-at-rohit-kohli-ahead-of-wi-tests-614272">'Main guys know they'll get selected...': Gavaskar takes an indirect dig at Rohit, Kohli ahead of WI Tests</a>

<h2>Panel in limbo</h2>

Currently, the wrestlers’ group inlcuding Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik has requested an extension for the trials before the final squad for the Asian Games is selected. However, since no trials have taken place, the Bhupender Singh Bajwa-headed panel has been left in limbo over the selection of wrestlers for the continental event.

The panel is responsible for holding the trials and selecting the wrestlers for the Asian Games 2022, which were postponed last year.&nbsp;

The HAGOC had earlier fixed July 15 as the cut-off date for all participating nations to provide the names of their athletes for the Asian Games, scheduled to be held from September 23 to October 8.

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Indian wrestlers and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) were handed a major setback by the organisers of the Asian Games 2022 on Tuesday (July 11) after they rejected the request for an extension of the deadline to name contenders.

Indian wrestlers and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) were handed a major setback by the organisers of the Asian Games 2022 on Tuesday (July 11) after they rejected the request for an extension of the deadline to name contenders. The IOA had initially requested the Hangzhou Asian Games Organising Committee (HAGOC) to extend the deadline to submit the names of wrestlers participating in the continental event in September. The rejection of the request means that India will have to announce their wrestlers’ contingent for the Hangzhou Games by July 22. India handed massive setback The setback comes amid the turmoil in Indian wrestling in wake of sexual assault allegations and protests against its chief Brij Bhushan Singh. India had requested the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) to extend the deadline to submit the names of wrestlers by August 5. With the rejection of the plea, the contingent will have to be named by July 22. Currently, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has been facing turmoil, which has seen the elections postponed. "The Hangzhou Organising Committee has rejected the IOA's request for further extension. They conveyed it to the OCA, and the OCA has conveyed this decision to the IOA," an official source from the Indian Olympic Association revealed to PTI news agency. Top wrestlers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and others have been protesting against the WFI chief and BJP Member of Parliament (MP) Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan since January. Serious allegations of sexual harassment and molestation have been put on the WFI chief and the protests have been going on. ALSO READ | 'Main guys know they'll get selected...': Gavaskar takes an indirect dig at Rohit, Kohli ahead of WI Tests Panel in limbo Currently, the wrestlers’ group inlcuding Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik has requested an extension for the trials before the final squad for the Asian Games is selected. However, since no trials have taken place, the Bhupender Singh Bajwa-headed panel has been left in limbo over the selection of wrestlers for the continental event. The panel is responsible for holding the trials and selecting the wrestlers for the Asian Games 2022, which were postponed last year. The HAGOC had earlier fixed July 15 as the cut-off date for all participating nations to provide the names of their athletes for the Asian Games, scheduled to be held from September 23 to October 8. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asian Games: Big setback for Indian wrestlers after organisers reject IOA's request for deadline extension

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly green light to the Indian men’s team’s participation in the Asian Games starting in September. The Asian Games, which were postponed in 2022 are due to be held later in the year as India will appear in the continental showpiece for the first time. It is also reported that India will send a second-string side for the Asian Games with the senior team set to play in the ODI World Cup which will start on October 5.

<h2>India to participate in Asian Games</h2>

According to a report published by PTI on Friday, July 7 BCCI in a board meeting discussed on the possibility of using a second-string squad for the Asian Games and the members agreed. The decision could open the doors for second-string Indian stars like Rinku Singh, Mukesh Sharma, and others to make their debut for the national side in the coming future. The BCCI would also avoid sending players who will be on the standby list or will be reserved for net practice.

"Through effective planning, communication, and coordination, the BCCI aims to navigate those challenges successfully and contribute to the national cause by fielding a team in both men's and women's category in line with the Government of India's directions," a board member is reported to have said to PTI.

<h2>When was Cricket last held at Asian Games?</h2>

Cricket was played at the Asian Games in 2014 in Incheon, South Korea when Sri Lanka beat Afghanistan in the Gold Medal match by 68 runs. This will be the third time that the Asian Games will have cricket as part of the itinerary, having debuted in the Guangzhou Games in 2010. On both occasions, Afghanistan were runners-up with Bangladesh winning the first-ever gold medal of the Asian Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-can-just-text-me-rr-star-replies-to-former-cricketers-commentators-criticising-his-game-613074">'You can just text me': RR star replies to former cricketers, commentators criticising his game</a>

<h2>Impact Player in SMAT</h2>

Last year both teams were allowed to use one Impact Player per match, but was not compulsory to be used in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). However, with the formula successful in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the rule will be used in the upcoming season of the SMAT.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly green light to the Indian men’s team’s participation in the Asian Games starting in September. The Asian Games, which were postponed in 2022 are due to be held later in the year as India will appear in the continental showpiece for the first time.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly green light to the Indian men’s team’s participation in the Asian Games starting in September. The Asian Games, which were postponed in 2022 are due to be held later in the year as India will appear in the continental showpiece for the first time. It is also reported that India will send a second-string side for the Asian Games with the senior team set to play in the ODI World Cup which will start on October 5. India to participate in Asian Games According to a report published by PTI on Friday, July 7 BCCI in a board meeting discussed on the possibility of using a second-string squad for the Asian Games and the members agreed. The decision could open the doors for second-string Indian stars like Rinku Singh, Mukesh Sharma, and others to make their debut for the national side in the coming future. The BCCI would also avoid sending players who will be on the standby list or will be reserved for net practice. "Through effective planning, communication, and coordination, the BCCI aims to navigate those challenges successfully and contribute to the national cause by fielding a team in both men's and women's category in line with the Government of India's directions," a board member is reported to have said to PTI. When was Cricket last held at Asian Games? Cricket was played at the Asian Games in 2014 in Incheon, South Korea when Sri Lanka beat Afghanistan in the Gold Medal match by 68 runs. This will be the third time that the Asian Games will have cricket as part of the itinerary, having debuted in the Guangzhou Games in 2010. On both occasions, Afghanistan were runners-up with Bangladesh winning the first-ever gold medal of the Asian Games. ALSO READ | 'You can just text me': RR star replies to former cricketers, commentators criticising his game Impact Player in SMAT Last year both teams were allowed to use one Impact Player per match, but was not compulsory to be used in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). However, with the formula successful in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the rule will be used in the upcoming season of the SMAT. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BCCI gives green signal to men's team's participation in Asian Games; 'Impact Player' rule to be used in SMAT

The 26th Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships in Ranchi witnessed Jinson Johnson make a glorious return by finishing first on the podium in the 1500m event. Jinson has been the top-ranked runner in Asia in both the 800m and 1500m disciplines and also holds the national record in both events.

<h2>Aims to win Asian Games Gold</h2>

Jinson, a Reliance Foundation athlete, looked back on his journey so far, he said, "My international career, from 2015-18, I performed really well. I won a bronze medal in the national championships and I won a silver medal in the Asian Championships in 2017. 2018 was the best performance year in my career. That year, I broke two national records, including a 23-year-old record. I won two medals at the Asian Games as well. Now with the Federation Cup, I was pleased to get the win, and it feels good to get some races under my belt after a long time away from the track.”

At a time when he was in the best form of his career, Jinson suffered a career-threatening Achilles tendon injury while training in the US. He then sought the support of the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai.

Ronak Hosabettu, Lead Sports Physiotherapist, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, who worked with Jinson post his injury and during his rehab, spoke about the intervention made by Reliance Foundation. “Jinson has been a Reliance Foundation Scholarship Athlete since April 2019 and as with all athletes, we extended our sports science and nutrition support to enhance his athletic performance.&nbsp; In November 2019, Jinson suffered a career-threatening Achilles Tendon Injury and he was put under the guidance of the team at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai.”

The return was short-lived though as the injury relapsed last year. Another extensive process of recovery and rehabilitation followed.&nbsp;

“The team focused on his recovery and a comprehensive and customized rehabilitation plan, which was progressive in nature through the 45 days of the plan and made a successful return to the sport. We have a dedicated team that works with Jinson always, including physicians and psychologists, to support him. Unfortunately, the same injury resurfaced in February 2022. We repeated the same process again and he has made a successful return this year, winning gold in each of his last two competitions.” Ronak said.

The series of injuries may have delayed his wins for a while but the Kerala athlete never gave up and continued working hard. Jinson faced his fair share of challenges with the recurring injuries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forget-retiring-this-season-husseys-latest-prediction-about-dhoni-could-see-him-playing-for-next-5-years-594379">Forget retiring this season, Hussey's latest prediction about Dhoni could see him playing for next 5 years</a>

<h2>Jinson keeps faith in training</h2>

“Consistency in training is the main thing for an athlete. To have that consistency after the comeback from injury was very tough. Once you are down, then coming up is very tough. But I want to come up,” Jinson added.

He was happy to have support from the Reliance Foundation, who helped him during his injuries and planned the rehab for him,” I have received a lot of support from the Reliance Foundation over the last four years during my injury and subsequent rehab, and am gradually feeling more confident about my performances,” Jinson said.

Jinson is aiming to be back at his best at the upcoming Asian Games, where he is the reigning champion in the 1500m event. “I am hoping to perform at my best in the upcoming competitions. I want to win medals at the Asian level and improve my training. My ultimate goal is to win a medal again in the Asian Games for India,” he signed off.

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The 26th Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships in Ranchi witnessed Jinson Johnson make a glorious return by finishing first on the podium in the 1500m event.

The 26th Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships in Ranchi witnessed Jinson Johnson make a glorious return by finishing first on the podium in the 1500m event. Jinson has been the top-ranked runner in Asia in both the 800m and 1500m disciplines and also holds the national record in both events. Aims to win Asian Games Gold Jinson, a Reliance Foundation athlete, looked back on his journey so far, he said, "My international career, from 2015-18, I performed really well. I won a bronze medal in the national championships and I won a silver medal in the Asian Championships in 2017. 2018 was the best performance year in my career. That year, I broke two national records, including a 23-year-old record. I won two medals at the Asian Games as well. Now with the Federation Cup, I was pleased to get the win, and it feels good to get some races under my belt after a long time away from the track.” At a time when he was in the best form of his career, Jinson suffered a career-threatening Achilles tendon injury while training in the US. He then sought the support of the Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai. Ronak Hosabettu, Lead Sports Physiotherapist, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, who worked with Jinson post his injury and during his rehab, spoke about the intervention made by Reliance Foundation. “Jinson has been a Reliance Foundation Scholarship Athlete since April 2019 and as with all athletes, we extended our sports science and nutrition support to enhance his athletic performance. In November 2019, Jinson suffered a career-threatening Achilles Tendon Injury and he was put under the guidance of the team at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai.” The return was short-lived though as the injury relapsed last year. Another extensive process of recovery and rehabilitation followed. “The team focused on his recovery and a comprehensive and customized rehabilitation plan, which was progressive in nature through the 45 days of the plan and made a successful return to the sport. We have a dedicated team that works with Jinson always, including physicians and psychologists, to support him. Unfortunately, the same injury resurfaced in February 2022. We repeated the same process again and he has made a successful return this year, winning gold in each of his last two competitions.” Ronak said. The series of injuries may have delayed his wins for a while but the Kerala athlete never gave up and continued working hard. Jinson faced his fair share of challenges with the recurring injuries. ALSO READ | Forget retiring this season, Hussey's latest prediction about Dhoni could see him playing for next 5 years Jinson keeps faith in training “Consistency in training is the main thing for an athlete. To have that consistency after the comeback from injury was very tough. Once you are down, then coming up is very tough. But I want to come up,” Jinson added. He was happy to have support from the Reliance Foundation, who helped him during his injuries and planned the rehab for him,” I have received a lot of support from the Reliance Foundation over the last four years during my injury and subsequent rehab, and am gradually feeling more confident about my performances,” Jinson said. Jinson is aiming to be back at his best at the upcoming Asian Games, where he is the reigning champion in the 1500m event. “I am hoping to perform at my best in the upcoming competitions. I want to win medals at the Asian level and improve my training. My ultimate goal is to win a medal again in the Asian Games for India,” he signed off. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Athletics Championships: Jinson Johnson clinches gold on return, aims to win gold at Asian Games

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against&nbsp;Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27. Mate Stadium in Adelaide will host all the games, which will be crucial to India's preparations for the&nbsp;Hangzhou Asian Games 2023.

After their historic fourth-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian women's team could not do anything significant in last year's Hockey World Cup. In the mega event, held in the Netherlands, India finished in the ninth spot with a solitary win, three draws and two defeats. Ahead of their tour Down Under, Indian striker Vandana Katariya --&nbsp;who has more than 250 International Caps -- will spearhead India's forward line in Australia. Ahead of the tour opener, Wion's Aditya Sahay spoke exclusively with Vandana on Team India's preparations, how to deal with pressure, learnings from the World Cup campaign and more.

How are the girls preparing for the Australia tour to tackle the different conditions and an experienced Aussie side?

We are preparing really well. Our&nbsp;sessions -- hard, red and green -- have been well planned.&nbsp;We are treating them as competition days. The tour of Australia is really important ahead of this year's Asian Games. We are practising with regard to exactly what we plan to do in Australia.

Learning from WC campaign and how to deal with big-stage pressure?

We ended ninth in the Women's World Cup last year. We ended with a lot of drawn encounters. There is always pressure but we have to ensure we do not get bogged down by it. There will always be pressure at the highest level. We have to use it in a good way. We need to be positive. We also need to learn from our experiences and mistakes, take some time when the going gets tough, and try to be in a calm state&nbsp;to perform better. Whatever mistakes we made in the World Cup, we need to rectify them during the Australian tour.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-wouldve-selected-yashasvi-jaiswal-as-rahuls-replacement-michael-vaughans-big-remark-591661">WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark</a>

Vandana has always excelled at the big stage. She was among the goal-scorers&nbsp;in last year's WC. In addition, she became India's first woman with an Olympic hat-trick during Tokyo 2020. Thus, she surely knows how to deliver in mega-events.

How important is it to understand when to defend, and when to attack?

We need to always be on the move. We need to have more control of the ball and maintain lead in most times. We have improved on double transfer, counter control, etc. Every player is eager to improve in all aspects. We have a lot of speed and agility in our team so we need to make the most of our squad going forward. Whether we defend or attack, we do it collectively and need to keep repeating the same basics we need to tick.&nbsp;

Any message for youngsters and aspiring players?

I just want to say that first, we need to be comfortable with the team, be it a youngster or a senior. We need to gel first and build confidence as a side. If we are on the attack, we should not waste it and ensure we convert it into a goal. These are some aspects we have improved upon and we can continue to reap benefits out of it.

Indian Team for Australia tour:&nbsp;Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita, Gurjit Kaur, Nisha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Sangita Kumari, Sharmila Devi.

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27.

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27. Mate Stadium in Adelaide will host all the games, which will be crucial to India's preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023. After their historic fourth-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian women's team could not do anything significant in last year's Hockey World Cup. In the mega event, held in the Netherlands, India finished in the ninth spot with a solitary win, three draws and two defeats. Ahead of their tour Down Under, Indian striker Vandana Katariya -- who has more than 250 International Caps -- will spearhead India's forward line in Australia. Ahead of the tour opener, Wion's Aditya Sahay spoke exclusively with Vandana on Team India's preparations, how to deal with pressure, learnings from the World Cup campaign and more. How are the girls preparing for the Australia tour to tackle the different conditions and an experienced Aussie side? We are preparing really well. Our sessions -- hard, red and green -- have been well planned. We are treating them as competition days. The tour of Australia is really important ahead of this year's Asian Games. We are practising with regard to exactly what we plan to do in Australia. Learning from WC campaign and how to deal with big-stage pressure? We ended ninth in the Women's World Cup last year. We ended with a lot of drawn encounters. There is always pressure but we have to ensure we do not get bogged down by it. There will always be pressure at the highest level. We have to use it in a good way. We need to be positive. We also need to learn from our experiences and mistakes, take some time when the going gets tough, and try to be in a calm state to perform better. Whatever mistakes we made in the World Cup, we need to rectify them during the Australian tour. Also Read: WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark Vandana has always excelled at the big stage. She was among the goal-scorers in last year's WC. In addition, she became India's first woman with an Olympic hat-trick during Tokyo 2020. Thus, she surely knows how to deliver in mega-events. How important is it to understand when to defend, and when to attack? We need to always be on the move. We need to have more control of the ball and maintain lead in most times. We have improved on double transfer, counter control, etc. Every player is eager to improve in all aspects. We have a lot of speed and agility in our team so we need to make the most of our squad going forward. Whether we defend or attack, we do it collectively and need to keep repeating the same basics we need to tick. Any message for youngsters and aspiring players? I just want to say that first, we need to be comfortable with the team, be it a youngster or a senior. We need to gel first and build confidence as a side. If we are on the attack, we should not waste it and ensure we convert it into a goal. These are some aspects we have improved upon and we can continue to reap benefits out of it. Indian Team for Australia tour: Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita, Gurjit Kaur, Nisha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Sangita Kumari, Sharmila Devi.

Exclusive: Australia tour will be beneficial ahead of Asian Games 2023, says India's striker Vandana Katariya

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said it would not be sending both India’s men’s and women’s teams for the upcoming Asian Games in September. The Asian Games, set to be hosted by Hangzhou in China, will not see India’s participation despite calls from the other associations to make cricket a global sport. While International Cricket Council (ICC) is pushing to include Cricket in the Olympics, BCCI’s stand to not take part in an international event has left plenty of unanswered questions.

<h2>Why is BCCI against sending Indian teams to Asian Games?</h2>

The Games were originally scheduled to take place from 10 to 25 September 2022; the event was postponed to 2023 on 6 May 2022 due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic in China, amid the potential threat of new variants. The BCCI has said that they have prior commitments to fulfill and also have Asia Cup to deal with before they prepare to host the ODI World Cup.

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The Asian Games are set to start on 23 September and will end on 8 October, coinciding with the World Cup. The ODI World Cup is likely to start on October 5, thus not allowing a sufficient gap for the players to recover and play in the main tournament. With a tight schedule to deal with, BCCI is unlikely to send its team to the Asian Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-there-cannot-be-a-bigger-cricketer-than-ms-dhoni-in-india-says-harbhajan-singh-584745">IPL 2023: There cannot be a bigger cricketer than MS Dhoni in India, says Harbhajan Singh</a>

“We have entries in all sports except one – cricket (team) isn’t going,” India’s chef de mission for the Asian Games, Bhupender Bajwa, told The Indian Express.

“They said they are preoccupied. We sent 3-4 emails to them but when we had to send entries to the organisers, they said they won’t go.”

A BCCI official confirmed the development but added that they received the email from the Indian Olympic Association just ‘one day before the deadline’.

“We had received the mail from IOA just one day before the deadline. At the same time, the BCCI already has finalised the FTP for women’s cricket. During the Asian Games, our team won’t be available as they will be playing in a tournament,” the BCCI official said.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said it would not be sending both India’s men’s and women’s teams for the upcoming Asian Games in September.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said it would not be sending both India’s men’s and women’s teams for the upcoming Asian Games in September. The Asian Games, set to be hosted by Hangzhou in China, will not see India’s participation despite calls from the other associations to make cricket a global sport. While International Cricket Council (ICC) is pushing to include Cricket in the Olympics, BCCI’s stand to not take part in an international event has left plenty of unanswered questions. Why is BCCI against sending Indian teams to Asian Games? The Games were originally scheduled to take place from 10 to 25 September 2022; the event was postponed to 2023 on 6 May 2022 due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic in China, amid the potential threat of new variants. The BCCI has said that they have prior commitments to fulfill and also have Asia Cup to deal with before they prepare to host the ODI World Cup. The Asian Games are set to start on 23 September and will end on 8 October, coinciding with the World Cup. The ODI World Cup is likely to start on October 5, thus not allowing a sufficient gap for the players to recover and play in the main tournament. With a tight schedule to deal with, BCCI is unlikely to send its team to the Asian Games. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: There cannot be a bigger cricketer than MS Dhoni in India, says Harbhajan Singh “We have entries in all sports except one – cricket (team) isn’t going,” India’s chef de mission for the Asian Games, Bhupender Bajwa, told The Indian Express. “They said they are preoccupied. We sent 3-4 emails to them but when we had to send entries to the organisers, they said they won’t go.” A BCCI official confirmed the development but added that they received the email from the Indian Olympic Association just ‘one day before the deadline’. “We had received the mail from IOA just one day before the deadline. At the same time, the BCCI already has finalised the FTP for women’s cricket. During the Asian Games, our team won’t be available as they will be playing in a tournament,” the BCCI official said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BCCI to not send teams for Asian Games before World Cup, cites prior commitments

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has decided not to send Indian cricket teams to the 2023 Asian Games. The postponed Asian Games will be held in Hangzhou, China from September 23 to October 8. With cricket targeting a spot at the Olympics, has the BCCI made a mistake?

BCCI refuses to send Indian teams to Asian Games

The Indian Men's Hockey team heads into the Birmingham Commonwealth Games hoping to build a legacy following the return to the Olympic podium last year. The last 10 months have been one of experimentation in Indian hockey with a second-string team initially scheduled to play in Birmingham. However, the postponement of the Asian Games has now allowed Reid to field his best squad. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with the head coach and the captain of the men's hockey team, Manpreet Singh, just ahead of the Games as they prepare to end India's wait for a gold medal.

Exclusive: Head coach & Captain of Indian men's hockey team speak to WION

On Thursday evening (May 19), India's young boxer Nikhat Zareen created history by claiming the Women's World Boxing Championships title. The 25-year-old Nikhat did the unthinkable&nbsp;by securing a historic gold medal after emerging on top of Thailand's Jutamas Jitpong 5-0 in the 52kg final of the World Boxing Championships in Istanbul (earlier, she had also won the Junior World C'ships in the same country 11 years ago).

Courtesy her historic result, Nikhat&nbsp;joined the likes of six-time champion M.C Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Jenny R.L and Lekha C. to become only the fifth Indian woman boxer to win the world title. After her victory, the entire country is beaming with pride. Needless to say, she has become an overnight star. However, the journey has not been easy for Nikhat as she has trained very hard for her recent success, gone past her ugly altercation with Mary Kom to create her own 'identity' and battled various other obstacles in the final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-matter-of-pride-nikhat-zareen-reacts-to-pm-modis-tweet-after-womens-world-boxing-cships-win-480755">'It's a matter of pride' - Nikhat Zareen reacts to PM Modi's tweet after Women's World Boxing C'ships win</a>

Recently, Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo got a chance to interact with Nikhat as she opened up on various topics. The youngster didn't shy away from expressing her thoughts on successfully stepping past Mary's gigantic shadow and revealed her game plan to outfox Thailand boxer&nbsp;Jutamas Jitpong.

On her special win, she said, "It feels nice to win a gold medal for my country. In 2011, it was my first international competition. This is my second World Championships but in flyweight, it is my first-ever. My aim was to win a gold medal and I am really happy I managed to do it."

Stepping out of Mary Kom's shadow

She stated, "I am happy to make my own mark at the world level. This is my senior World C'ships. In flyweight, this was my first World C'ships. I still managed to win gold medal for my country and hopefully I will keep performing well and winning more medals in the future." (Both Nikhat and Mary share a forgettable past after Nikhat allaged selection bias in the Boxing federation of India's choice for Olympics, which favoured the latter).&nbsp;

Game plan vs the Thai opponent

"Actually, my game plan was to win the first two rounds unanimously. First-round went as per plan but in the second round, she came back. So in the third round, I had ot go all-out and I did the same to win unanimously 5-0. When my hand was raised, I was very happy," Nikhat added.

In the summit clash, the&nbsp;judges scored the bout 30-27, 29-28, 29-28, 30-27, 29-28 in the Indian's favour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/twitterati-goes-gaga-over-nikhat-zareen-as-youngster-secures-gold-in-womens-world-boxing-cships-480518">Twitterati goes gaga over Nikhat Zareen as youngster secures gold in Women's World Boxing C'ships</a>

After Nikhat's performance, PM Narendra Modi also&nbsp;tweeted saying, "Our boxers have made us proud! Congratulations to @nikhat_zareen for a fantastic Gold medal win at the Women`s World Boxing Championship. I also congratulate Manisha Moun and Parveen Hooda for their Bronze medals in the same competition."

Nikhat also responded to Modi's tweet&nbsp;while speaking&nbsp;in a virtual chat with the media and said, "I do not know who has tweeted for me till now, I am going to the hotel right now. Once I reach, I will see who all have tweeted for me. If PM Modi has tweeted, it would be a matter of pride for me as the Prime Minister of the country has tweeted for me."

Along with Nikhat, Manisha Moun and Parveen Hooda also kept the national flag high in the recently-concluded Women's World C'ships with their bronze medals.

On Thursday evening (May 19), India's young boxer Nikhat Zareen created history by claiming the Women's World Boxing Championships title. The 25-year-old Nikhat did the unthinkable by securing a historic gold medal after emerging on top of Thailand's Jutamas Jitpong 5-0 in the 52kg final of the World Boxing Championships in Istanbul (earlier, she had also won the Junior World C'ships in the same country 11 years ago).

On Thursday evening (May 19), India's young boxer Nikhat Zareen created history by claiming the Women's World Boxing Championships title. The 25-year-old Nikhat did the unthinkable by securing a historic gold medal after emerging on top of Thailand's Jutamas Jitpong 5-0 in the 52kg final of the World Boxing Championships in Istanbul (earlier, she had also won the Junior World C'ships in the same country 11 years ago). Courtesy her historic result, Nikhat joined the likes of six-time champion M.C Mary Kom, Sarita Devi, Jenny R.L and Lekha C. to become only the fifth Indian woman boxer to win the world title. After her victory, the entire country is beaming with pride. Needless to say, she has become an overnight star. However, the journey has not been easy for Nikhat as she has trained very hard for her recent success, gone past her ugly altercation with Mary Kom to create her own 'identity' and battled various other obstacles in the final. ALSO READ | 'It's a matter of pride' - Nikhat Zareen reacts to PM Modi's tweet after Women's World Boxing C'ships win Recently, Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo got a chance to interact with Nikhat as she opened up on various topics. The youngster didn't shy away from expressing her thoughts on successfully stepping past Mary's gigantic shadow and revealed her game plan to outfox Thailand boxer Jutamas Jitpong. On her special win, she said, "It feels nice to win a gold medal for my country. In 2011, it was my first international competition. This is my second World Championships but in flyweight, it is my first-ever. My aim was to win a gold medal and I am really happy I managed to do it." Stepping out of Mary Kom's shadow She stated, "I am happy to make my own mark at the world level. This is my senior World C'ships. In flyweight, this was my first World C'ships. I still managed to win gold medal for my country and hopefully I will keep performing well and winning more medals in the future." (Both Nikhat and Mary share a forgettable past after Nikhat allaged selection bias in the Boxing federation of India's choice for Olympics, which favoured the latter). Game plan vs the Thai opponent "Actually, my game plan was to win the first two rounds unanimously. First-round went as per plan but in the second round, she came back. So in the third round, I had ot go all-out and I did the same to win unanimously 5-0. When my hand was raised, I was very happy," Nikhat added. In the summit clash, the judges scored the bout 30-27, 29-28, 29-28, 30-27, 29-28 in the Indian's favour. ALSO READ | Twitterati goes gaga over Nikhat Zareen as youngster secures gold in Women's World Boxing C'ships After Nikhat's performance, PM Narendra Modi also tweeted saying, "Our boxers have made us proud! Congratulations to @nikhat_zareen for a fantastic Gold medal win at the Women`s World Boxing Championship. I also congratulate Manisha Moun and Parveen Hooda for their Bronze medals in the same competition." Nikhat also responded to Modi's tweet while speaking in a virtual chat with the media and said, "I do not know who has tweeted for me till now, I am going to the hotel right now. Once I reach, I will see who all have tweeted for me. If PM Modi has tweeted, it would be a matter of pride for me as the Prime Minister of the country has tweeted for me." Along with Nikhat, Manisha Moun and Parveen Hooda also kept the national flag high in the recently-concluded Women's World C'ships with their bronze medals.

EXCLUSIVE | Nikhat Zareen opines on stepping out of Mary Kom's shadow, reveals game plan vs Jutamas Jitpong

Beijing has announced the postponement of the Asian games citing its domestic spike in covid infections. The games were scheduled to be held from September 10th to the 25th in the city of Hangzhou.

2022 edition of Asian games postponed amid a rise in COVID-19 cases in China

Stars such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya will not get direct entries into the final of their respective categories when the national federation holds selection trials for Commonwealth Games and Asian Games owing to the unrest among upcoming grapplers during the recent Asian Championship trials.

During the trials for the Mongolia event, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had given direct entries to Bajrang and Dahiya for the spot-clinching final in their respective weight categories, while the others slogged through the draw. Bajrang faced stiff competition from Rohit in the only bout he fought in the 65kg while an annoyed Aman gave a walkover to Ravi in the 57kg final after battling his way to the summit clash. 
Both Aman and Ravi train at Chhatrasal Stadium.

Deepak Punia (86kg) was also given a direct entry to the final, a move which the other wrestlers termed as unfair. No one complained officially but the decision was criticised and the WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was seen assuring the wrestlers that they would see better arrangement "next time." 
The WFI is now set to conduct the trials for men (May 17, in New Delhi) and women (May 16, in Lucknow) to pick teams for the CWG and Asian Games.

"No one will get direct entry to final this time. All will have to come through draw for the CWG and Asiad trials. We have not received any request for special treatment as of today but if star wrestlers want some benefit, given their status, the committee can consider but definitely they will not get direct entry into final," said a WFI source.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-star-kamalpreet-kaur-provisionally-suspended-after-testing-positive-for-banned-drug-476549">Tokyo 2020 star Kamalpreet Kaur provisionally suspended after testing positive for banned drug</a>

"Will it be fair on a wrestler who wins four bouts and still sits at home?" 
It is expected that the WFI will ask star wrestlers to compete from the semifinals stage during the trials. 
Ravi has been dominant since returning to competition after grabbing a silver medal at the Tokyo Games. He is miles ahead of wrestlers in his category, even as Bajrang struggles to get back his touch. 
While Bajrang escaped the trial bout against Rohit, the 28-year-old Tokyo Games bronze medallist was far from his usual self at the Asian Championship in Ulaanbaatar, where he won a silver after losing to 19-year-old Iranian junior world champion Rahman Mousa Amouzadkhalili.

His recent struggles must have raised hopes of wrestlers who are eyeing a spot in the Indian team in the 65kg category, which Bajrang has made his own with his dominating show in the past few years. 
A section in the fraternity believes that there is nothing wrong in giving special treatment to special athletes like Bajrang, Ravi and Deepak, since protecting them from injuries is also a responsibility of the federation. 
"If you have four wrestlers whose capability to win international medals is beyond doubt, they must be protected from injuries. Why ask them to play full draw. They are there because they have proved their worth," opined Sujeet Maan, personal coach of Bajrang.

"I personally feel wrestlers who won either gold or silver at the Asian Championship can be asked to play just one bout, the final against the winner of the draw. "No one plays to lose. The new wrestlers just want to defeat these stars but our second line is still not mature enough to win medals at global events. So why risk injuries to our real medal contenders," said Maan, adding that eventually, they would follow whatever the WFI decides.

Respected coach Virender Singh also said that the WFI must keep in mind the overall benefit of the sport. 
"Look, main thing is to win medal, not just participation. These 3-4 guys go for medals. Others have competed in the past in same categories but did they win medals? These boys are doing well and again asked to appear in trials, why?," asked Virender.

"By consistently managing weight, their muscle go weak, kidneys get affected. They have to stay empty stomach and then sweat it out to maintain weight for trials, it affects body adversely. Doing it again and again is not good for their health.

"Their recovery is very important since they do same weight lose drill ahead of competitions. If at all the federation wants to encourage the second line, what they can do is to have trials of other wrestlers on one day and the winner can compete with the established one on the next day, so they are fresh for the tough bout," he suggested.

The winners of the trials will book their berths in the Indian team for the CWG and Asian Games while the finalists will get to compete in the World Championship, which will be held in Serbia in September.&nbsp;

Stars such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya will not get direct entries into the final of their respective categories when the national federation holds selection trials for Commonwealth Games and Asian Games owing to the unrest among upcoming grapplers during the recent Asian Championship trials.

Stars such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya will not get direct entries into the final of their respective categories when the national federation holds selection trials for Commonwealth Games and Asian Games owing to the unrest among upcoming grapplers during the recent Asian Championship trials. During the trials for the Mongolia event, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had given direct entries to Bajrang and Dahiya for the spot-clinching final in their respective weight categories, while the others slogged through the draw. Bajrang faced stiff competition from Rohit in the only bout he fought in the 65kg while an annoyed Aman gave a walkover to Ravi in the 57kg final after battling his way to the summit clash. Both Aman and Ravi train at Chhatrasal Stadium. Deepak Punia (86kg) was also given a direct entry to the final, a move which the other wrestlers termed as unfair. No one complained officially but the decision was criticised and the WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was seen assuring the wrestlers that they would see better arrangement "next time." The WFI is now set to conduct the trials for men (May 17, in New Delhi) and women (May 16, in Lucknow) to pick teams for the CWG and Asian Games. "No one will get direct entry to final this time. All will have to come through draw for the CWG and Asiad trials. We have not received any request for special treatment as of today but if star wrestlers want some benefit, given their status, the committee can consider but definitely they will not get direct entry into final," said a WFI source. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020 star Kamalpreet Kaur provisionally suspended after testing positive for banned drug "Will it be fair on a wrestler who wins four bouts and still sits at home?" It is expected that the WFI will ask star wrestlers to compete from the semifinals stage during the trials. Ravi has been dominant since returning to competition after grabbing a silver medal at the Tokyo Games. He is miles ahead of wrestlers in his category, even as Bajrang struggles to get back his touch. While Bajrang escaped the trial bout against Rohit, the 28-year-old Tokyo Games bronze medallist was far from his usual self at the Asian Championship in Ulaanbaatar, where he won a silver after losing to 19-year-old Iranian junior world champion Rahman Mousa Amouzadkhalili. His recent struggles must have raised hopes of wrestlers who are eyeing a spot in the Indian team in the 65kg category, which Bajrang has made his own with his dominating show in the past few years. A section in the fraternity believes that there is nothing wrong in giving special treatment to special athletes like Bajrang, Ravi and Deepak, since protecting them from injuries is also a responsibility of the federation. "If you have four wrestlers whose capability to win international medals is beyond doubt, they must be protected from injuries. Why ask them to play full draw. They are there because they have proved their worth," opined Sujeet Maan, personal coach of Bajrang. "I personally feel wrestlers who won either gold or silver at the Asian Championship can be asked to play just one bout, the final against the winner of the draw. "No one plays to lose. The new wrestlers just want to defeat these stars but our second line is still not mature enough to win medals at global events. So why risk injuries to our real medal contenders," said Maan, adding that eventually, they would follow whatever the WFI decides. Respected coach Virender Singh also said that the WFI must keep in mind the overall benefit of the sport. "Look, main thing is to win medal, not just participation. These 3-4 guys go for medals. Others have competed in the past in same categories but did they win medals? These boys are doing well and again asked to appear in trials, why?," asked Virender. "By consistently managing weight, their muscle go weak, kidneys get affected. They have to stay empty stomach and then sweat it out to maintain weight for trials, it affects body adversely. Doing it again and again is not good for their health. "Their recovery is very important since they do same weight lose drill ahead of competitions. If at all the federation wants to encourage the second line, what they can do is to have trials of other wrestlers on one day and the winner can compete with the established one on the next day, so they are fresh for the tough bout," he suggested. The winners of the trials will book their berths in the Indian team for the CWG and Asian Games while the finalists will get to compete in the World Championship, which will be held in Serbia in September.

No direct entry for Bajrang Punia, Ravi Dahiya into finals of CWG and Asian Games selection trials

Union Sports and Youth affairs minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said a decision on Indian players' participation at this year`s Asian Games will be taken after receiving information from host country China, as the COVID cases rapidly increased in Shanghai.

Shanghai, China`s biggest city, has witnessed the country`s worst Covid outbreak in two years, with weeks-long restrictions keeping most of its 25 million residents caged in their homes.

The 2022 Asian Games is scheduled to be held in Hangzhou less than 200 kilometres from Shanghai, is scheduled to hold the Games from September 10-25, becoming the third host after Beijing in 1990 and Guangzhou in 2010.

"This topic is being discussed all over the world and a decision will be taken on this situation in India as well. We are keeping an eye on this situation and in talks with the organizer too we will look after our players too and looking the situation over there also we are looking at what organizers will say in this matter as this is a serious issue and let`s see what happen in upcoming days," Anurag Thakur told ANI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ravindra-jadeja-steps-down-as-chennai-super-kings-captain-ms-dhoni-to-take-over-475245">IPL 2022: Ravindra Jadeja steps down as Chennai Super Kings captain, MS Dhoni to take over</a>

Talking about the Khelo India Master Games, Thakur said, "More than 3000 players from 23 states and union territories are participating in the Khelo India Master Games in Delhi today. This Is a Great effort to promote sports. Players above 30 years of age and up to 95 years are playing here. A lot of Ex-Olympians are participating here. I am sure from next year there will be many events not only in the country but also in our states. Schemes like Khelo India Scheme and Target Olympic Podium Scheme have done a lot of work to move the game forward."

Union Sports and Youth affairs minister also praised sports schemes for promoting awareness.

"Fit India Movement, Fit India Mobile App, Fit India Quiz and Khelo India These events are organized to promote sports and to increase awareness. And I am glad that the Masters came forward and showed their participation in this," said Thakur.

Union Sports and Youth affairs minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said a decision on Indian players' participation at this year`s Asian Games will be taken after receiving information from host country China, as the COVID cases rapidly increased in Shanghai.

Union Sports and Youth affairs minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said a decision on Indian players' participation at this year`s Asian Games will be taken after receiving information from host country China, as the COVID cases rapidly increased in Shanghai. Shanghai, China`s biggest city, has witnessed the country`s worst Covid outbreak in two years, with weeks-long restrictions keeping most of its 25 million residents caged in their homes. The 2022 Asian Games is scheduled to be held in Hangzhou less than 200 kilometres from Shanghai, is scheduled to hold the Games from September 10-25, becoming the third host after Beijing in 1990 and Guangzhou in 2010. "This topic is being discussed all over the world and a decision will be taken on this situation in India as well. We are keeping an eye on this situation and in talks with the organizer too we will look after our players too and looking the situation over there also we are looking at what organizers will say in this matter as this is a serious issue and let`s see what happen in upcoming days," Anurag Thakur told ANI. Also Read: IPL 2022: Ravindra Jadeja steps down as Chennai Super Kings captain, MS Dhoni to take over Talking about the Khelo India Master Games, Thakur said, "More than 3000 players from 23 states and union territories are participating in the Khelo India Master Games in Delhi today. This Is a Great effort to promote sports. Players above 30 years of age and up to 95 years are playing here. A lot of Ex-Olympians are participating here. I am sure from next year there will be many events not only in the country but also in our states. Schemes like Khelo India Scheme and Target Olympic Podium Scheme have done a lot of work to move the game forward." Union Sports and Youth affairs minister also praised sports schemes for promoting awareness. "Fit India Movement, Fit India Mobile App, Fit India Quiz and Khelo India These events are organized to promote sports and to increase awareness. And I am glad that the Masters came forward and showed their participation in this," said Thakur.

We are keeping an eye on Asian Games situation, says Anurag Thakur amid COVID-19 outbreak in China

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The Kashmiri girls in sports are breaking the barriers and making a mark in the international sports arena. From winning gold medals to securing a position of judge at the Asian games, Kashmiri sportswomen are at the forefront. Just a few years ago, there were hardly any women in sports in the valley but now the whole scenario has changed. Girls are picking up sports as their careers and excelling in the field.&nbsp;

Recently, Sadia Tariq from Srinagar became the first Indian girl to get a Wushu World Gold Medal at the Moscow Wushu Stars event. At 15, Sadia is a two-time Junior National Wushu Championship gold medallist as well.

Sadia has been lauded by everyone across the country. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted about her win. Hundreds of students are inspired by Sadia and her win.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-wushu-championship-gold-medallist-sadia-tariq-dreams-of-meeting-indian-pm-narendra-modi-459351">Also read |&nbsp;World Wushu Championship gold medallist Sadia Tariq dreams of meeting Indian PM Narendra Modi</a>

'' My parents are my inspiration. I think other girls will take up sports after my win. My father has been continuously getting calls from so many people that they want their girls to participate and take up sports. It's such a great thing that girls are wanting to take up wushu as their careers. There is so much change and I don't want to take credit for it but it's all because of my parents who stood by me through my journey. &nbsp;'' said Sadia Tariq, World Gold Medallist in Wushu.&nbsp;

Another such story is of Olympic-level women's kayaking-canoeing player Bilquis Mir, she is the first Kashmiri woman to be chosen as a judge at the upcoming Asian Games in China. Bilquis Mir, 33 is the first water sports coach from Srinagar and was the first Olympic-level women's kayaking-canoeing player from the Kashmir region.

When Bilquis started her sports career, there were very few women from Jammu and Kashmir who were playing for the state. She paved a way for many girls across the Union territory to take up sports as their careers. Bilquis appreciates the increasing number of girls joining different sports in the valley.&nbsp;

''It's sending a positive message as when I started there were very few girls in the sports and now, I see that changing, Girls should trust and have faith in themselves, Girls always face more hurdles in their careers, but my message would be that talent will never die. Keep working hard, where there is a will there's a way. I had a dream of becoming a judge at an international sports event as I saw a very small number of girls in decision-making teams at these events. I always say men in those teams, and I promised myself that I would be in the decision-making team of these events. After the Olympics, if there is any big event, it's the Asian games. I am extremely happy about this. '' said Bilquis Mir, Director Water Sports, Jammu Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Sports council department in the valley has seen a sharp rise in female registrations in various sports. From water sports to winter sports to other games, women are proving to be better at every sports activity.&nbsp;

''It's changing a lot. There were few girls in sports in Kashmir a few years back but now there are so many. 50 percent of the total at sports facilities is now girls. The girls do it better than boys. Sadia won a gold medal; she is a golden girl for us. She is an inspiration for other girls in the UT. I am sure we will have many girls like Sadia in the future. '' said Mushtaq Zargar, Coach, Sports Council.&nbsp;

The young girls in the Kashmir valley are so inspired by these sportswomen that they are taking up sports and are also winning medals for the state. One such girl is Nabeela Khan, who recently won a silver medal in water sports. She has drawn her inspiration from Bilquis Mir.&nbsp;

''I won a silver medal at Himachal in a tournament. I was so happy that I could participate. Since I came to Kashmir, girls were all at home cooking and cleaning but then it was an improvement and now they are growing up and playing sports. They play sports a priority now and it's very exciting to see what they are going to do. I got inspired by my mam Bilquis Mir, she is going to be a judge at Asian games. I want to be an Olympic player. '' said Nabila Khan, Water sports Medallist.&nbsp;

It's not only about winning medals but also about paving a way for other girls to take up sports as their careers.&nbsp;
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The Kashmiri girls in sports are breaking the barriers and making a mark in the international sports arena. From winning gold medals to securing a position of judge at the Asian games, Kashmiri sportswomen are at the forefront.

The Kashmiri girls in sports are breaking the barriers and making a mark in the international sports arena. From winning gold medals to securing a position of judge at the Asian games, Kashmiri sportswomen are at the forefront. Just a few years ago, there were hardly any women in sports in the valley but now the whole scenario has changed. Girls are picking up sports as their careers and excelling in the field. Recently, Sadia Tariq from Srinagar became the first Indian girl to get a Wushu World Gold Medal at the Moscow Wushu Stars event. At 15, Sadia is a two-time Junior National Wushu Championship gold medallist as well. Sadia has been lauded by everyone across the country. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted about her win. Hundreds of students are inspired by Sadia and her win. Also read | World Wushu Championship gold medallist Sadia Tariq dreams of meeting Indian PM Narendra Modi '' My parents are my inspiration. I think other girls will take up sports after my win. My father has been continuously getting calls from so many people that they want their girls to participate and take up sports. It's such a great thing that girls are wanting to take up wushu as their careers. There is so much change and I don't want to take credit for it but it's all because of my parents who stood by me through my journey. '' said Sadia Tariq, World Gold Medallist in Wushu. Another such story is of Olympic-level women's kayaking-canoeing player Bilquis Mir, she is the first Kashmiri woman to be chosen as a judge at the upcoming Asian Games in China. Bilquis Mir, 33 is the first water sports coach from Srinagar and was the first Olympic-level women's kayaking-canoeing player from the Kashmir region. When Bilquis started her sports career, there were very few women from Jammu and Kashmir who were playing for the state. She paved a way for many girls across the Union territory to take up sports as their careers. Bilquis appreciates the increasing number of girls joining different sports in the valley. ''It's sending a positive message as when I started there were very few girls in the sports and now, I see that changing, Girls should trust and have faith in themselves, Girls always face more hurdles in their careers, but my message would be that talent will never die. Keep working hard, where there is a will there's a way. I had a dream of becoming a judge at an international sports event as I saw a very small number of girls in decision-making teams at these events. I always say men in those teams, and I promised myself that I would be in the decision-making team of these events. After the Olympics, if there is any big event, it's the Asian games. I am extremely happy about this. '' said Bilquis Mir, Director Water Sports, Jammu Kashmir. The Sports council department in the valley has seen a sharp rise in female registrations in various sports. From water sports to winter sports to other games, women are proving to be better at every sports activity. ''It's changing a lot. There were few girls in sports in Kashmir a few years back but now there are so many. 50 percent of the total at sports facilities is now girls. The girls do it better than boys. Sadia won a gold medal; she is a golden girl for us. She is an inspiration for other girls in the UT. I am sure we will have many girls like Sadia in the future. '' said Mushtaq Zargar, Coach, Sports Council. The young girls in the Kashmir valley are so inspired by these sportswomen that they are taking up sports and are also winning medals for the state. One such girl is Nabeela Khan, who recently won a silver medal in water sports. She has drawn her inspiration from Bilquis Mir. ''I won a silver medal at Himachal in a tournament. I was so happy that I could participate. Since I came to Kashmir, girls were all at home cooking and cleaning but then it was an improvement and now they are growing up and playing sports. They play sports a priority now and it's very exciting to see what they are going to do. I got inspired by my mam Bilquis Mir, she is going to be a judge at Asian games. I want to be an Olympic player. '' said Nabila Khan, Water sports Medallist. It's not only about winning medals but also about paving a way for other girls to take up sports as their careers.

Kashmiri girls breaking barriers and shining at international sports arena

Having already tasted numerous successes at the international stage, six-time&nbsp;World Champion MC Mary Kom has decided against participating in the trials for the upcoming IBA Elite Women's World Boxing Championships and 2022 Asian Games, that is scheduled to start on Monday.

Mary Kom's aim is to give platform to upcoming boxers and focus on her preparations for the Commonwealth Games.

In a communication to the Boxing Federation of India, the London Olympic bronze medallist said, "I would like to withdraw to give the opportunity to the younger generation to make a name for themselves on the International stage and get exposure and experience of major tournaments. I would like to focus on the preparation for the Commonwealth Games only."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-wc-2022-sachin-tendulkar-virender-sehwag-congratulate-team-india-after-win-against-pakistan-459538">Women's WC 2022: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag congratulate Team India after win against Pakistan</a>

The selection trials for all 12 categories of the Women's World Championships will start from Monday and will end on Wednesday, the trials will also include Asian Games weights divisions, which are the same as IBA.

However, for the remaining two Asian Games weight categories, 51kg and 69kg, trials will be conducted separately on March 11-14 thereby giving more time to boxers of closest weight categories to also take a shot at the trials for the Asian Games.

"Mary Kom has been the torchbearer for Indian boxing since the last two decades and has inspired countless boxers and sportspersons across the world. We completely respect her decision and it is a testimony of her champion character to make way for the other boxers," said Ajay Singh, President of Boxing Federation of India.

"We are delighted that we have such a good bench strength and are looking forward to the younger generation to make the nation proud and I hope and wish Mary all the best with her preparations for the CWG," he added.

National campers, including the participants of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, who didn't compete in the National Championships, will be eligible for the selection trials.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-we-won-against-pakistan-but-lot-of-things-to-work-on-india-skipper-mithali-raj-459534">Happy we won against Pakistan, but lot of things to work on: India skipper Mithali Raj</a>

The selection committee, comprising BFI President or his nominee alongside an expert panel of reputed veteran boxers, will ensure smooth conduct of the trials as all the bouts will be video recorded.

The Asian Games selection trials for men will be held in May, while, for the Commonwealth Games, trials for both men and women will be conducted in June.

The IBA Women's World Boxing Championships is scheduled from May 6 to 21 in Istanbul, Turkey while the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2022 Asian Games will begin on July 28 and September 10 respectively.

Having already tasted numerous successes at the international stage, six-time World Champion MC Mary Kom has decided against participating in the trials for the upcoming IBA Elite Women's World Boxing Championships and 2022 Asian Games, that is scheduled to start on Monday.

Having already tasted numerous successes at the international stage, six-time World Champion MC Mary Kom has decided against participating in the trials for the upcoming IBA Elite Women's World Boxing Championships and 2022 Asian Games, that is scheduled to start on Monday. Mary Kom's aim is to give platform to upcoming boxers and focus on her preparations for the Commonwealth Games. In a communication to the Boxing Federation of India, the London Olympic bronze medallist said, "I would like to withdraw to give the opportunity to the younger generation to make a name for themselves on the International stage and get exposure and experience of major tournaments. I would like to focus on the preparation for the Commonwealth Games only." ALSO READ: Women's WC 2022: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag congratulate Team India after win against Pakistan The selection trials for all 12 categories of the Women's World Championships will start from Monday and will end on Wednesday, the trials will also include Asian Games weights divisions, which are the same as IBA. However, for the remaining two Asian Games weight categories, 51kg and 69kg, trials will be conducted separately on March 11-14 thereby giving more time to boxers of closest weight categories to also take a shot at the trials for the Asian Games. "Mary Kom has been the torchbearer for Indian boxing since the last two decades and has inspired countless boxers and sportspersons across the world. We completely respect her decision and it is a testimony of her champion character to make way for the other boxers," said Ajay Singh, President of Boxing Federation of India. "We are delighted that we have such a good bench strength and are looking forward to the younger generation to make the nation proud and I hope and wish Mary all the best with her preparations for the CWG," he added. National campers, including the participants of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, who didn't compete in the National Championships, will be eligible for the selection trials. ALSO READ: Happy we won against Pakistan, but lot of things to work on: India skipper Mithali Raj The selection committee, comprising BFI President or his nominee alongside an expert panel of reputed veteran boxers, will ensure smooth conduct of the trials as all the bouts will be video recorded. The Asian Games selection trials for men will be held in May, while, for the Commonwealth Games, trials for both men and women will be conducted in June. The IBA Women's World Boxing Championships is scheduled from May 6 to 21 in Istanbul, Turkey while the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2022 Asian Games will begin on July 28 and September 10 respectively.

India's boxing star Mary Kom to miss World Championship, Asian Games

Cricket will make a comeback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year but India, the game's financial engine, is unlikely to field teams owing to existing commitments.

Few expected India's men's team to compete in the September Games risking injury to the players ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia from Oct. 16.

Participation of the women's team, who will compete in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July-August, now also looks unlikely.

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"As far as the Asian Games in Hangzhou is concerned, a final decision on whether to send both men's and women's teams will be taken later and based on our existing commitments," BCCI secretary Jay Shah told Reuters.

The Games coincides with the women team's limited-overs tour of England where they are scheduled to play three one-dayers and an equal number of Twenty20 Internationals.

Hosting India is a lucrative proposition for any board and Shah said honouring bilateral commitment was particularly important in a post-coronavirus world. 
"The BCCI has always stood by member boards and helped them in these difficult times," Shah said.

"The board firmly believes in honouring its bilateral commitments.

"We are committed to our fans here in India and it is absolutely important that we safeguard our home season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-just-ran-towards-virat-kohli-and-hugged-him-rcb-pacer-md-siraj-recalls-best-surprise-of-life-454323">I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life'</a>

"The FTP that has been created needs to be adhered to," he said referring to the game`s Future Tours Programme calendar.

The reluctance of the BCCI, the world's richest cricket board, was seen as a major impediment to the game`s Olympic inclusion.

But a change in BCCI's stance has emboldened the governing International Cricket Council's push for cricket`s inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

"The BCCI and ICC are on the same page on this and agree that the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is good for the growth of the game," added Shah.

Cricket will make a comeback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year but India, the game's financial engine, is unlikely to field teams owing to existing commitments.

Cricket will make a comeback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year but India, the game's financial engine, is unlikely to field teams owing to existing commitments. Few expected India's men's team to compete in the September Games risking injury to the players ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia from Oct. 16. Participation of the women's team, who will compete in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July-August, now also looks unlikely. ALSO READ: 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 "As far as the Asian Games in Hangzhou is concerned, a final decision on whether to send both men's and women's teams will be taken later and based on our existing commitments," BCCI secretary Jay Shah told Reuters. The Games coincides with the women team's limited-overs tour of England where they are scheduled to play three one-dayers and an equal number of Twenty20 Internationals. Hosting India is a lucrative proposition for any board and Shah said honouring bilateral commitment was particularly important in a post-coronavirus world. "The BCCI has always stood by member boards and helped them in these difficult times," Shah said. "The board firmly believes in honouring its bilateral commitments. "We are committed to our fans here in India and it is absolutely important that we safeguard our home season. ALSO READ: I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life' "The FTP that has been created needs to be adhered to," he said referring to the game`s Future Tours Programme calendar. The reluctance of the BCCI, the world's richest cricket board, was seen as a major impediment to the game`s Olympic inclusion. But a change in BCCI's stance has emboldened the governing International Cricket Council's push for cricket`s inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. "The BCCI and ICC are on the same page on this and agree that the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is good for the growth of the game," added Shah.

India unlikely to send cricket teams in Hangzhou Asian Games owing to existing commitments

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