Asia’s biggest sporting event, the 18th edition of Asian Games is all set to take the centre stage from 18th of August in Jakarta and Palembang, Indonesia. 

In the most recent development, Leander Paes pulled himself out of the Games after not getting the ‘specialist’ Doubles player. The Indian team will rely heavily on the experience of Rohan Bopanna and Divij Sharan. The two are set to pair in the Men’s Doubles category with Divij Sharan having a great run recently.

In the absence of Yuki Bhambri, a lot will be expected from Ramkumar Ramanathan who has shown good form recently. The most recent success of Ramkumar Ramanathan at the Atlanta Open, 2018, where he finished runner-up will only boost his confidence. The major challenge for him would be to face Uzbekistan’s Denis Istomin, who happens to be the only top-100 Men’s Singles player entering the Asian Games, currently ranked 76 in the world.

Prajnesh Gunneswaran’s late resurgence at the ATP circuit has surprised many. He will be India’s next best hope after Ramkumar Ramanathan in Men’s Singles category. 

India has always had a great run at the Games. The team has won 29 medals in total including eight golds since 1958. 

For more inspiration, the Indian tennis contingent can look at their most recent Asian Games record. In 2014 Incheon, Asian Games, the country had won five medals (1 Gold, 1 Silver and 3 Bronze). A repeat on the cards would be perfect for India at the Asian Games.