Asian Games 2026: India’s Medal Hunt Intensifies on October 2 With Boxing, Wrestling and Hockey Finals

India’s campaign at the Asian Games 2026 entered a crucial phase on October 2, with athletes competing across several disciplines and multiple medal events scheduled through the day. The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games saw India target further medals in archery, boxing, wrestling, hockey, sailing, cycling and other sports.

One of the major highlights was Lovlina Borgohain, who faced China’s Bao Ziyi in the women’s 75kg boxing final. Borgohain secured the gold medal after defeating her Chinese opponent 5-0. The victory also marked her maiden Asian Games gold medal.

India also created history in women’s recurve archery. The team of Ankita Bhakat, Kumkum Mohod and Kirti Sharma defeated South Korea 5-3 in the final to claim India’s first-ever gold medal in the event at the Asian Games. Kumkum was also involved in the mixed recurve team event alongside Dhiraj Bommadevara.

The Indian boxing team had further opportunities to add to the medal tally, with Parveen competing in the women’s 65kg final and Ankush featuring in the men’s 80kg final. Wrestling also remained a major focus, with Sujeet competing in the men’s freestyle 65kg category and Rajat Ruhal in the 125kg division. The day also featured a highly anticipated women’s hockey final, with India taking on China for the gold medal. The match carried additional significance as the winner would also secure qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics.

India added medals in other disciplines as well. Nethra Kumanan won bronze in women’s dinghy sailing, while the men’s quadrant team secured a bronze medal in sepaktakraw. By October 2, India had accumulated 72 medals, including 12 gold, 25 silver and 35 bronze, placing sixth in the medal standings at that stage.