There is no end to cricket’s dominance, as far as the viewership is concerned. But that notion was thwarted at the recently concluded Asian Games, as the men’s javelin throw garnered more views than any cricket match at the Games. In simple terms, it means, Neeraj Chopra grabbed more eyeballs, than the Indian cricket team at the Asian Games.
As per the data by SMG YouGov and BARC, the men’s javelin throw final event, headlined by India’s Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Jena garnered 1.33 million views, followed by the India vs Nepal quarter-final match at 1.24 million views.
In a men’s javelin final at the Asian Games, which was marred by controversy, Neeraj Chopra had a best throw of 88.88m, with which he secured the gold medal. Kishore Jena made a personal best with a throw of 87.54m to claim the silver medal.
Controversy at Men’s Javelin Final Asian Games
The men’s javelin final at the Asian Games saw Neeraj and Kishore, both suffering at the hands of poor Chinese officiating. At first, Neeraj’s first throw was not recorded, citing technical issues, and then Kishore’s legal throw was deemed illegal by the same officials. But both the throwers rose above the controversy and brought two medals in the event for the country.
India vs Nepal
Batting first, India scored a marvellous 202 in 20 overs, guided by Yashaswi Jaiswal’s 100 in 49 balls only. Rinku Singh scored 37 in just 15 balls to add the finishing touches. In reply, Nepal ended with 179/9, giving a good account of themselves. In what looked like a rather close match, India only won by 23 runs.
The third on the list is the archery men’s compound team event final against South Korea. This event too garnered 1.07 million views. Meanwhile, the Indian team comprising Abhishek Verma, Ojas Deotale, and Prathamesh Jawkar got an archery gold medal after its 235-230 win against South Korea.
The men’s team badminton final between India and China was a close fourth with 0.98 million views. It was a final in which India lost 2-3 but gave China a tough fight in a sport they dominate. Lakshya Sen and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/ Chirag Shetty won their respective matches, but the others failed on the day.
Lastly, kabaddi stood fifth with 0.89 million views.
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Editors pick
