India’s medal tally at the Asian Games 2026 surged on Friday as squash and kabaddi athletes delivered standout performances, keeping the nation firmly in contention for multiple podium finishes.

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In squash, veterans Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar advanced to the mixed doubles semifinals after defeating the Philippines’ David Pelino and Jemyca Aribado. Rising star Anahat Singh, India’s first junior world champion, breezed past compatriot Tanvi Khanna 11‑2, 11‑5, 11‑3 to set up a semifinal clash with world No. 6 Satomi Watanabe. Meanwhile, Abhay Singh also progressed to the singles last four, assuring India of at least three medals in squash. Importantly, singles gold medallists will earn direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where squash will debut.

On the kabaddi mat, India’s women’s team stormed into the final with a commanding 48‑24 win over Nepal, maintaining their unbeaten run and staying on course for a fourth consecutive Asian Games gold. The men’s team followed suit, thrashing Thailand 66‑28 to book their place in the summit clash.

Elsewhere, shooters Kamaljeet and Suruchi Singh struck gold in the 10m air pistol mixed team event, bouncing back from individual disappointments to deliver another title for India. However, badminton saw heartbreak as defending men’s doubles champions Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty suffered a shock first‑round exit against Thailand’s Pakkapon Teeraratsakul and Peeratchai Sukphun.