- Indian Women’s Team Wins Its Fourth Gold Medal in Asian Games History

Tokai, 26 September (H.S.): The Indian women’s kabaddi team produced a commanding performance to successfully defend its gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games. India defeated 2018 champions Iran 37-34 in a thrilling final at the Tokai Citizen Gymnasium on Saturday to claim the gold medal. With the victory, India secured its fourth women’s kabaddi gold in Asian Games history.

India maintained control of the final from the outset. Although Iran mounted a strong challenge, the Indian players remained composed under pressure. India held a 22-16 lead at the end of the first half.

The contest began on an even footing, with the teams locked at 5-5 after four minutes. Iran then moved ahead 6-5 with an excellent ankle hold on Sanju. India responded by steadily collecting points and regaining the momentum.

Following a fine tackle by Bhavana Devi, India inflicted the first all-out to establish a 13-10 lead. Nikita then produced a multi-point raid to extend India’s advantage to 15-10. Sanju Devi also contributed a bonus point and two additional points to put India in a strong position.

Iran attempted to fight back in the second half and reduced India’s lead. With 10 minutes remaining, India held a 25-20 advantage. Iran continued to score and narrowed the gap to 27-26, but the Indian team maintained its composure and continued to perform strongly under pressure.

A two-point raid by Sanju Devi restored India’s advantage and made it 34-28. Pooja then added another point. India strengthened its defence in the closing stages to secure a 37-34 victory and retain the women’s kabaddi gold medal.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar