All about the 2018 Asian Games
The 2018 Asian Games are set to be held in Indonesia from August 18 to September 2. Indonesian cities of Jakarta and Palembang will be hosting the 18th edition of the Games. India had hosted the first edition in 1951. India will be hoping to have a strong say in the coveted event and gain authority. Here is everything about the Games.
Vital points about the Games being held in Indonesia
The sporting extravaganza is set to witness around 16,000 athletes from 45 nations taking part. A total of 58 games will be played in the event. Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta will be hosting the opening and closing ceremonies of the Asian Games. This is the first time that the Games are being hosted by two cities.
804-member contingent for India with 572 athletes in fray
The Indian Sports Ministry cleared a 804-member Indian contingent for the Games, which includes 572 athletes. The Ministry cleared the names which were recommended by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
All about the Indian contingent
The Indian government will bear the cost of: 572 athletes, 183 officials, 119 coaches, 21 doctors and physiotherapists. There are 43 other officials in the list as well. India will take part in 36 events in Indonesia. 312 men and 260 women are set to represent the nation. India had won 57 medals in the previous games held at South Korea.
8 new sports disciplines added
Eight new sports disciplines have been added to the Indian contingent this time. The new events are as follows: Karate, Kurash, Pencak Silat, Roller Skating, Sambo, Sepaktakraw, Triathlon and Soft Tennis.
India's chances and where to watch the Asian Games
India's major hopes at the Asian Games will be in disciplines such as badminton, shooting, hockey, table tennis, wrestling, boxing and weightlifting. India had a stunning 2018 Commonwealth Games where they won 66 medals to finish third on the table. The tournament will be telecast live on the Sony Ten Network and can be streamed on the Sony Liv app as well.