A relentless wave of podium finishes propelled India into the top five of the medal standings on the 13th day of the Asian Games. Delivering clutch performances across multiple sporting disciplines, Indian athletes amassed 6 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals in a single day. This surge raised India's gold count to 16, firmly locking the nation into fifth position in the overall medal table. Across the tournament so far, the Indian contingent has accumulated 76 total medals, comprising 16 gold, 25 silver, and 35 bronze.
Historic Women's Hockey Triumph Ends 44-Year Wait and Books Olympic Berth
The defining moment of the day came on the hockey turf, where the Indian women's team scripted history in a fiercely contested final. Facing China in a high-stakes title decider, India held their nerve to secure a 1-0 victory and claim the coveted gold medal. The triumph brought an end to an agonising 44-year wait for an Asian Games gold in women's hockey. Crucially, securing this continental title also earned the Indian team an automatic direct qualification spot for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, United States.
Sujeet Kalkal Stages Dramatic Comeback in 65kg Freestyle Wrestling
Wrestling fans witnessed one of the most remarkable turnarounds of the games in the men's 65kg freestyle category. Competing in the final against a formidable opponent from Tajikistan, Indian wrestler Sujeet Kalkal found himself trailing heavily at 2-9, with defeat looking almost inevitable. Refusing to yield, Sujeet mounted an electrifying comeback in the closing moments, executing three consecutive clean takedowns to overturn the deficit and seal a breathtaking 10-9 victory for the gold medal.
Triple Gold Haul Lights Up the Boxing Ring
The boxing arena delivered widespread celebration as three Indian pugilists dominated their respective weight divisions to claim top honours. In the women's draw, Lovlina Borgohain demonstrated tactical composure to conquer the 75kg category final and capture gold. Joining her on top of the podium was Parveen, who produced a commanding display in the 65kg division to overcome her opponent. On the men's side, Ankush Panghal stood tall in the 80kg category, overpowering his rival with clinical striking to take the gold medal.
Archery Trio Stuns South Korea in Historic Recurve Final
Indian archery witnessed a watershed moment in the women's recurve team competition. The trio of Ankita Bhakat, Bhajan Kaur, and Simranjeet Kaur delivered nerves of steel against powerhouse South Korea, prevailing in a gripping encounter to win a historic gold medal. India added further honours on the archery range during the day, picking up two silver medals through strong campaigns in both the men's recurve team and mixed recurve team events.
