Aichi-Nagoya , 21 September (H.S.): The reigning champions, India's men's kabaddi team, began their Asian Games 2026 campaign with a convincing victory. In their opening Group A match on Monday, India defeated Japan 49-24 at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium.

Making his Asian Games debut, Ayan Lochab delivered an impressive performance and, alongside Ashu Malik, helped India establish an early lead. India went into the interval with a commanding 31-9 advantage. Another debutant, Devank Dalal, also made a strong impact in attack as India maintained relentless pressure on Japan during the opening 20 minutes.

Aslam Inamdar opened the second half with a successful raid. India continued to control the contest thereafter. Japan improved its performance in the second half and scored 15 points, while India added 18, but by then the Indian team had already established an unassailable lead.

India accumulated 36 points from outs, eight points from all-outs and two points from super tackles, while Japan scored nine bonus points.

India will next face South Korea in Group A on Tuesday.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar