New Delhi: India’s athletic prowess will be on full display on Day 9 of the ongoing Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, with the Indian contingent scheduled to compete in 13 different sporting events. Having already secured 37 medals, the nation’s expectations are sky-high as athletes aim for podium finishes across multiple disciplines on September 28.
The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be the men’s cricket quarter-final clash, where the Indian team is set to face off against Afghanistan at 10:00 AM IST. Cricket enthusiasts across the country are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes knockout match.
However, the day is packed with significant medal opportunities beyond the cricket pitch, particularly in track and field. Indian fans will have their eyes glued to several high-profile athletics events. Avinash Sable will compete in the men’s 3000m steeplechase final, while Parul Chaudhary will take the field for the women’s 5000m race. Additionally, Murali Sreeshankar is a strong contender for a medal in the men’s long jump final, scheduled for 4:25 PM IST.
The boxing ring will also see intense action. Star pugilist Lovlina Borgohain will step into the ring at 1:30 PM IST for her 75kg quarter-final bout against South Korea’s Suyeon Seong, aiming to assure a medal with a spot in the semi-finals.
In shooting, the star-studded women’s 25m pistol team, comprising Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh, and Rahi Sarnobat, will compete in the individual qualification and team finals early in the morning. Their individual finals will follow later in the day, promising thrilling action at the ranges.
India’s schedule is further fortified with crucial matches in archery, hockey, tennis, and squash. The men’s hockey team will square off against Bangladesh in a Pool A match at 3:30 PM IST. Meanwhile, tennis ace Sumit Nagal will compete in his men’s singles second-round match, and the squash teams will feature in multiple pool matches throughout the day.
With multiple medal events lined up, Day 9 is poised to be a defining day for India’s medal tally at the 2026 Asian Games.