Fatima Sana and Noor Zaman Lead Pakistan Delegation at Asian Games Opening Ceremony
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Pakistan’s delegation was led by women’s cricket team captain Fatima Sana and squash player Noor Zaman during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, on Saturday.
The ceremony took place at the Paloma Mizuho Stadium, officially marking the start of the 20th edition of the continental multi-sport event.
246 Pakistani Athletes to Compete in 23 Sports
According to the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), 246 Pakistani athletes across 23 disciplines will participate in the Games.
Pakistan’s representation includes athletes from sports such as cricket, squash, hockey, athletics and esports.
The Asian Games will continue until October 4, with athletes from across the continent competing in more than 40 sports.
Asian Games Open With Message of Unity
The opening ceremony featured a message focused on unity across Asia following a challenging build-up to the event.
Japan’s Emperor and Empress attended the ceremony, while International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry was also present.
The 30,000-capacity stadium featured a colourful presentation, including a main stage designed in the shape of a giant heart. However, a significant number of seats appeared to remain empty despite organisers saying tickets had been sold.
The first gold medal of the Games is expected to be awarded on Sunday morning, with the men’s individual triathlon among the early events.
More Than 11,000 Athletes Expected
More than 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials are taking part in the Asian Games.
Unlike previous editions, organisers have not provided a traditional athletes’ village. Participants are instead staying in hotels, temporary container-style accommodation and the cruise ship Costa Serena.
The preparations have faced several challenges, including heavy rainfall that caused flooding in parts of Nagoya. A typhoon approaching eastern Japan has also raised concerns about possible disruption.
Some athletes reportedly faced transportation problems after arriving at the airport, while several teams raised concerns about the quality of temporary accommodation.
Another incident occurred on Friday when North Korea’s national anthem was reportedly played for South Korea’s men’s hockey team.
Asian Games Feature 45 Countries and Territories
The Olympic Council of Asia said the event brings together 45 countries and territories.
OCA President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani said the opening ceremony was intended to highlight unity across Asia amid regional conflicts and political tensions.
China is expected to be among the leading medal contenders after finishing the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games with 201 gold medals and 383 medals overall.
New Sports Join the Asian Games
Several sports are already underway, including basketball, football and cricket.
Traditional Olympic events such as athletics and swimming will feature alongside popular Asian sports including kabaddi and sepak takraw.
The Games also include esports, breakdancing and BMX cycling, while padel and mixed martial arts (MMA) are making their Asian Games debuts.
Young athletes are also attracting attention, including 15-year-old Indian cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and 13-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi.
Philippine tennis player Alexandra Eala is also among the athletes competing at the event.
India and Pakistan Could Meet in Cricket
India’s cricket team is participating as the sport prepares for its return to the Olympic programme at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, following a 128-year absence.
India and Pakistan could potentially meet in the Asian Games cricket final at Nagoya’s newly built cricket venue, depending on their results and weather conditions.
The 2026 Asian Games will conclude on October 4, with athletes competing for medals across more than 40 sports.
