Asian Games 2026: Indian Women Secure Sprint Finals
Nandhini Kongan, Harita Bhadra, and Unnathi Bolland advance to crucial finals at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya.
India’s pursuit of glory at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya received a massive boost as Indian women athletes secured their spots in multiple high-stakes finals. The track and field contingent saw significant success, with Nandhini Kongan, Harita Bhadra, and Unnathi Bolland all advancing to their respective finals, keeping India's medal hopes alive in the sprint and hurdles categories.
Kongan Clinches 100m Hurdles Spot
In a dramatic turn of events in the women's 100m hurdles, Nandhini Kongan successfully navigated the qualifying rounds to reach the final. Competing in Heat 2, Kongan clocked a time of 13.48 seconds, finishing in fourth place. While she finished behind Japan's Mako Fukube, China's Yanni Wu, and Indonesia's Dina Aulia, she secured her place in the final via a 'q' qualification.
Kongan's progression was also aided by the absence of India's Jyothi Yarraji, who did not start her scheduled heat, opening up the competitive field for the Indian hurdler.
Double Triumph in Women's 200m
The 200m event proved to be a standout moment for the Indian camp, as two athletes secured their places in the final. Harita Bhadra delivered a stellar performance, finishing second in her heat with a time of 23.31 seconds. She narrowly trailed Singapore's Veronica Shanti Pereira, who recorded an identical time of 23.31 seconds to secure automatic qualification.
Adding to the momentum, Unnathi Bolland also advanced to the final after a strong third-place finish in her heat, clocking 23.33 seconds. With both Bhadra and Bolland through, India will field a formidable double presence in the women's 200m final scheduled for Sunday.
India Clinches Kabaddi Gold with Stunning Comeback
While the track events provided intense competition, the Indian men's team secured a major victory in the kabaddi arena. In a thrilling encounter, India staged a magnificent second-half comeback to defeat Iran 40-34, clinching the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026.
The match saw a dramatic shift in momentum; India trailed 17-18 at the half-time break, looking to be on the verge of defeat. However, the Indian side emerged from the break with renewed energy, dominating the second half to turn the contest decisively in their favour and stand atop the podium.