The 20th Asian Games officially got underway today at Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Japan, with Emperor Naruhito declaring the Games open. The two-hour ceremony was attended by Japan’s royal family, Games officials, and Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani.
India’s 501-member contingent was led by double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat during the athletes’ parade. Sehrawat replaced shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as flag-bearer after the latter did not receive his ceremonial kit on time.
Some events have already begun, including women’s cricket, where India have already advanced to the semifinals after an eight-wicket win over Japan yesterday. India will face Bangladesh in the second semifinal in Nisshin, Japan, tomorrow. In Teqball, which is making its Asian Games debut, India’s Quimcy D’Souza suffered a 1-2 defeat to Indonesia’s Ima Sumaya in the women’s singles semifinal and will play Japan’s Yuina Sakamoto for bronze medal tomorrow.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent as the Asian Games commenced today in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. In his message, Mr Modi said each athlete has worked incredibly hard and shown remarkable dedication and determination and India is proud of them. He hoped that the athletes play well and shine at the Games.
