NewsPhotos India's Brightest Medal Hopes At Asian Games 2023: Top 10 Contenders To Watch - In Pics

India's Brightest Medal Hopes At Asian Games 2023: Top 10 Contenders To Watch - In Pics

The Asian Games 2023, scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8, is all set to witness India's finest athletes vying for glory. As the nation hopes to surpass its impressive tally of 16 gold, 23 silver, and 31 bronze medals from the previous edition in Indonesia, here's a closer look at the top 10 Indian medal prospects who are expected to shine in Hangzhou.

Akash Kharade|

Updated:Sep 23, 2023, 05:32 PM IST

Neeraj Chopra - Men’s Javelin Throw

1/10

Defending His Crown

Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion and Diamond League champion, aims to defend his Asian Games gold medal from Jakarta 2018. With a personal best of 89.94m, the world-beater is poised for another stellar performance.

Nikhat Zareen - Boxing (Women’s 50kg)

2/10

Aiming for Gold

Nikhat Zareen, the reigning world and Commonwealth champion in the women's 50kg category, seeks gold at the Asian Games, which also serves as a qualifier for Paris Olympics 2024. She's on a mission to fulfill her dream of an Olympic medal.

Indian Men’s Hockey Team

3/10

Eyeing Olympic Qualification

The Indian men’s hockey team, rejuvenated under coach Craig Fulton, looks to put their Jakarta disappointment behind and secure gold. A direct Olympic entry awaits the winners, and the team's recent triumph at the Asian Champions Trophy bodes well for their prospects.

Rohan Bopanna - Tennis (Men’s Doubles)

4/10

Golden Partner Search

Veteran Rohan Bopanna, paired with Matthew Ebden, is in prime form with ATP Tour titles and Grand Slam success. He aims to repeat his Jakarta 2018 gold, albeit with a new doubles partner.

Indian Men’s and Women’s Cricket Teams

5/10

Debuting with High Hopes

Both the Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams make their Asian Games debut as top contenders for gold. Ruturaj Gaikwad leads the men’s team, while Smriti Mandhana captains the women's side, albeit without Harmanpreet Kaur.

Jyothi Surekha Vennam - Compound Archery

6/10

Multiple Medals Await

With a history of success at Asian Archery Championships and World Championships, Jyothi Surekha Vennam aims to clinch multiple medals in Hangzhou.

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty - Badminton (Men’s Doubles)

7/10

World No. 3 Duo

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, ranked third in men's doubles, are a formidable pair. Their recent successes at major tournaments make them strong contenders for gold.

Rudrankksh Patil - Shooting (Men’s 10m Air Rifle)

8/10

Gold Hunt in Air Rifle

Rudrankksh Patil, with his past accomplishments and consistent form, aims to secure India's first-ever gold in men’s 10m air rifle at the Asian Games.

Tejaswin Shankar - Decathlon

9/10

Switching Disciplines for Gold

High-jump specialist Tejaswin Shankar is now a decathlete, chasing gold in his new event. His recent performances and Asian Games qualification signal his potential.

Mirabai Chanu - Weightlifting (Women’s 49kg)

10/10

Olympic Silver Medalist's Quest

Mirabai Chanu, India's Olympic silver medalist, aspires to stand on the podium again at the Asian Games, despite formidable competition in her category.