Aichi-Nagoya, 23 September (H.S.): Defending champions India continued their title defence in the women’s kabaddi competition at the Asian Games, defeating Iran 37-23 in their Group A fixture at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Wednesday.

With the victory, India moved closer to securing a place in the semi-finals. The Indian side will face Japan in its final Group A match on Thursday, with the outcome set to determine its semi-final qualification.

Iran made a brisk start to the contest, taking an early 8-4 lead and putting pressure on the Indian defence. India responded through Pooja, who produced a superb super raid to cut into Iran’s advantage. Another impressive raid from her then helped India draw level and completely shifted the momentum of the match.

India subsequently took control of the contest, combining effective raiding with a disciplined defensive display to establish a 19-15 lead by the end of the first half.

The defending champions maintained their momentum after the break and steadily extended their advantage. Iran struggled to convert its pressure into points, while India continued to find success in both attack and defence. India outscored Iran 18-8 in the second half to seal a convincing 37-23 victory.

India’s tally of 37 points included seven bonus points and four points from All-Outs, while Iran collected six bonus points during the match.

The Indian defence also produced an effective display, securing a Super Tackle point in the second half and further disrupting Iran’s attacking rhythm.

India will next take on Japan in their final Group A fixture at 4:15 p.m. on September 24. The result of that match will determine India’s position in the group and its place in the semi-finals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar