National Sports Day special: 5 things to hope for in Indian sports

2. A better showing at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and Asian Games

Promise of a better show in sports other than cricket

While the Delhi Commonwealth Games had more than its fair share of administrative troubles, the silver lining came in the form of India’s performances in the event itself. Amassing its highest ever medals tally in the competition, India finished at the second place behind Australia in the final standings in its home Games.

Many believe that the total of 101 medals will only swell in the coming editions due to better training and facilities, with a long-standing belief that a career in sports in India outside of cricket not being financially viable slowly being dispelled. This has led to more of the nation’s youngsters diversifying their tastes and looking beyond cricket’s riches.

India saw its highest-ever medals tally in the Summer Olympics during the 2012 event in London, finishing with 2 silver and 4 bronze medals. They also saw a best-ever performance at an Asian Games event in 2010, where they picked up 65 medals and finished in sixth place in the overall standings.

While India’s bungling administration has, on occasion, marred the chances of its young athletes, impressive performances in international events from a number of its athletes suggest that the only way is up for Indian athletics.