In a gripping display of skill and determination, India’s men’s kabaddi team emerged victorious at the Asian Games, clinching the gold medal by defeating arch-rivals Iran in a high-stakes final. The match, held at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre, ended with a scoreline of 38-34 in favor of India, marking their eighth gold medal in Asian Games kabaddi history.
The final was a testament to India’s dominance in the sport, but it was far from an easy victory. Iran, known for their robust defense and tactical acumen, posed a formidable challenge. The first half saw a tight contest with both teams exchanging points frequently, but India managed to edge ahead with a slender lead of 20-18 at the break.
India’s captain, Pawan Sehrawat, was in scintillating form, executing successful raids and leading by example. His performance was complemented by the defensive prowess of Sandeep Narwal and the agility of Naveen Kumar. Iran, led by their star player Mohammad Esmaeil Maghsoudlou, kept the pressure on India with swift raids and strong tackles.
The second half continued to be a neck-and-neck battle, with the scores often tied. However, India’s experience and composure in crucial moments made the difference. With just minutes left on the clock, India executed a series of successful raids and crucial tackles, pulling away to secure the victory.
Post-match, Pawan Sehrawat expressed his joy and pride in the team’s performance. “This victory means a lot to us. Iran is a tough opponent, and it was a challenging match. Our team showed great resilience and teamwork. Winning the gold at the Asian Games is a dream come true, and I dedicate this win to all our fans and the support staff who have worked tirelessly with us,” Sehrawat said.
Coach Srinivas Reddy praised the team’s effort and strategic execution. “The boys played exceptionally well under pressure. Our focus was on maintaining discipline and executing our strategies effectively. This gold medal is the result of the hard work and dedication of the entire team,” Reddy remarked.
The victory was celebrated widely across India, with sports enthusiasts and fans applauding the team’s achievement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur congratulated the team, highlighting the significance of the win for Indian sports. “Congratulations to our kabaddi team for their splendid performance and winning the gold medal at the Asian Games. This victory showcases the talent and determination of our athletes,” PM Modi tweeted.
India’s journey to the gold medal was marked by a series of dominant performances in the group stages and knockout rounds. The team’s blend of youth and experience, coupled with strategic planning and rigorous training, has reestablished India’s supremacy in kabaddi on the Asian stage.
As the Indian kabaddi team returns home with the gold medal, their success serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and highlights the growing popularity and competitiveness of kabaddi. The triumph at the Asian Games not only adds to India’s rich legacy in the sport but also promises a bright future for kabaddi in the country.
