Asian Games 2026: Manu Bhaker, Tajinderpal Toor to Lead Indian Contingent at Opening Ceremony

New Delhi: The big fair of Asian Games is starting tomorrow in Japan. The opening ceremony will be held in Aichi-Nagoya on 19th September and the flag of India will be held there by two big players, shooter Manu Bhaker and shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor. This has been announced by Chef de Mission Sahdev Yadav. This time India has reached Japan with 503 players.

Why was Manu Bhaker chosen?

Everyone knows Manu's name. Had won not one but two medals in Paris Olympics. Bronze in 10 meter air pistol individually and then in mixed team also. She became the first Indian to do so. Now holding the flag in the opening is a big honor for him. However, Manu will not get much time, because the shooting matches start on 19th itself.

How is the record of Tajinderpal Toor?

Toor is a former Asian Games champion. Gold in 2018 Jakarta, then also gold in 2023 Hangzhou. Meaning champion twice in a row. Now we will land in Nagoya for the third time. Neeraj Chopra is not there this time due to injury, so the highest expectations are from Toor in athletics.

When and where will the ceremony take place?

The opening will take place in Nagoya on September 19. The games will run till October 4. Players from 45 countries will compete in 43 sports. However, some games have also started, like Techball from 17 and women's cricket from 18.

How big a contingent has India taken?

503 players will play, out of which 269 are boys and 234 are girls. India will play in 36 games. There are more than 300 players who are playing the Asian Games for the first time. Last time in Hangzhou, India had won 107 medals, which is the biggest record till date. This time also the expectation is the same.

What changed due to Neeraj Chopra not playing?

Before the Asian Games, the Indian athletics team has suffered a blow due to the exclusion of Neeraj Chopra. Due to injury, the star player of javelin throw will not be able to participate in the competition this time. With this, India will keep an eye on other players in athletics.

That's why the presence of Tajinderpal Toor also becomes important. He has experience playing on the big stage and has been champion in his event in the last two Asian Games. Now, from the opening ceremony in Nagoya to the shot put field, his role is going to be special for the Indian team.