Bangladesh in Asian Games
The 2014 Asian Games, officially known as the XVII Asiad, is the largest sporting event in the continent governed by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). It is scheduled to take place in Incheon, South Korea from September 19 to October 4, 2014, with 439 events in 36 sports and disciplines set to feature in the Game
All the 45 members of the OCA will take part. The main contenders of the competition are China, South Korea and Japan.
The cost of the Games was estimated at approximately US$1.62 billion, with the Korean government and the Incheon government covering 19 percent and 78.9 percent respectively.
Of the total budget, some US $1.39 billion have been used for the construction of venue and infrastructure, while approximately US$11 million for building and maintenance of training grounds. Around US$103 million was used for road and transportation projects.
Bangladesh will participate in 12 disciplines including shooting, soccer, hockey, kabadi and cricket. The probability of winning gold medal from any discipline is remote.
However, if India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka abstain from sending their senior teams in the cricket event, then Bangladesh have a golden chance to secure at least two gold medals. Otherwise, the contingent will return empty-handed.
P. Rozario
Pabna
