The Times of India

Japans Emperor Naruhito officially declared the Games open in the presence of Empress Masako, members of the Japanese imperial family, Olympic Council of Asia president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry. The Asian Games will be held from September 19 to October 4.

As Neeraj Chopra recuperates from an injury, he sends motivational vibes to Team India ahead of the Asian Games 2026. At the opening ceremony, Manu Bhaker and Pawan Sehrawat led the Indian delegation as flagbearers. The nation aspires to break its previous medal tally from the Hangzhou Games. Some events have kicked off prior to the ceremonial start amid the vibrant Aichi-Nagoya atmosphere filled with competitive spirit.

In a candid moment, former captain Rohit Sharma opened up about his comfort food during Test matches. Facing long hours of play often stirred feelings of anxiety and sleeplessness, yet his mother's baked banana wafers brought him peace. With their familiar taste, these beloved snacks accompanied Rohit throughout his illustrious Test career, grounding him amid the pressure.

Sehrawat was named Indias co-flag-bearer alongside double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker after a late change. Tajinderpal Singh Toor, who was earlier named as a flag-bearer, was ruled out due to technical issues. The 2022 Asian Games gold-medal-winning captain said the honour made him so excited that he stayed awake through the night.

Thaduthuvila Chandapillai Yohannan had etched his name in history with an astounding long jump record achieved in Tehran in 1974. Battling through pain and injuries, he has showcased remarkable athletic prowess, a journey nurtured by his father's unwavering support and encouragement. Yohannan's story is one of dedication and resilience, inspiring him to eagerly support the next generation of athletes aiming for greatness.

Neeraj Chopra shared his regret about being sidelined from the Asian Games due to an ankle injury, a significant barrier preventing him from defending his javelin throw title in Nagoya. He highlighted the essential role of support systems during his recovery and expressed gratitude for friends who help distract him from the challenges of his athletic career.

Koneru Humpy avenged her recent Global Chess League setbacks against Greeces Stavroula Tsolakidou, helping Indias women extend their unbeaten run at the Chess Olympiad. In the open section, Gukesh returned to winning ways against Italys Sabino Brunello after slipping below 2700. India won the open tie 3-1, while both teams continued their strong starts to the tournament.

Derbyshire Police have concluded their investigation into Brydon Carse's alleged assault, resulting in no charges being filed against the England fast bowler. Previously removed from the England squad for the Pakistan series, Carse faced prior arrest for drunkenness. With the legal proceedings now settled, Carse can move forward without the weight of uncertainty hanging over him.

Pawan Sehrawat has been chosen as the flag-bearer for India's opening ceremony at the Asian Games, stepping in for Tajinderpal Singh Toor, who faced delays with his official kit. Toor mentioned that his kit would arrive too late to participate in the event. Additionally, the athletics team is still waiting for their uniforms. Sehrawat will accompany Manu Bhaker in carrying the Indian flag.

For the karate contingent, reigning Asian champion Alisha Choudharys repeated pleas to sports authorities and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) officials for accreditation for her coach, Vikas Panchal, have gone unheard.

Saikia insisted that the BCCI has faith in the local organisation committee to provide satisfactory on-ground facilities at the match venue despite reports of other Asian cricket boards raising objections about the quality of the ground

The match was reduced to 20 overs per side after rain interrupted play at the Niranjan Shah Stadium. India posted 182 for six after being sent in to bat by Aussie skipper Jack Czosnek, with Chauhan making 54 off 34 balls and Anvay, son of former India captain Rahul Dravid, scoring 38 off 18.

Indian fans brought the energy to Japan as India took on Japan in the quarterfinals of the Asian Games 2026. The Times of India caught up with Indian fans at the venue to talk about their love for Smriti Mandhana, their support for Team India and what it means to see cricket making its presence felt in Japan.From cheering for India to discussing Smriti Mandhana and the growing interest in cricket, heres what fans in Japan had to say.Watch the full fan interaction and follow TOI Sports for more f

Chef de Mission Sehdev Yadav addresses accommodation and transport issues at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, revealing how SAI arranged additional hotel rooms for Indian athletes.

Gautam Gambhir opens up on Indias squad selection challenges, the impact of Asian Games commitments, Shubman Gills need for a settled playing XI, and the importance of giving young players opportunities. He also discusses the teams focus on impact cricket and the return of Hardik Pandya.

In a stunning display of skill, India Women triumphed over Japan with an impressive eight-wicket win in the Asian Games quarter-finals. The Indian bowlers suffocated Japan's innings, allowing them to score just fifty-seven runs. Leading the charge, Shafali Verma's explosive forty runs hastened the chase, advancing India into the semi-finals against Bangladesh, mirroring the line-up from the Womens Asia Cup.

As the Asian Games opening ceremony approaches, Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor have been chosen to carry India's flag, symbolising the country's sports spirit. Bhaker, celebrated for her double Olympic medal triumph, recently earned two bronzes at the Paris Olympics. Toor, a leader in shot put with two previous Asian Games titles, brings valuable experience.