Aichi, September 2026 : India began their defence of the women’s kabaddi title at the 2026 Asian Games with a commanding 42-21 victory over Bangladesh in their opening Group A match at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Monday.
India produced a strong all-round performance, combining disciplined defence with sustained attacking pressure to secure a convincing win. Sanju Devi played a key role in the attack, while the Indian defence consistently restricted Bangladesh’s scoring opportunities.
India made an aggressive start and prevented Bangladesh from making frequent attempts at the bonus line. Their raiders regularly found points, while the defence maintained pressure on their opponents.
Bangladesh captain Sraboni Mollick helped her side stay on the scoreboard, but India continued to control the contest. Manisha Kumari was particularly effective from the left cover, while Sonali Shingate and captain Pushpa Rana contributed important points in attack.
India eventually inflicted an All-Out on Bangladesh to establish a sizeable advantage and went into the half-time break leading 21-10.
The defending champions maintained their intensity after the restart. Sanju Devi and Pooja produced quick hand touches, while India’s defensive line remained high and aggressive, making it difficult for Bangladesh’s raiders to build momentum.
India’s pressure resulted in another All-Out, further extending their advantage. Sanju Devi continued to make an impact with successful raids and kept the Indian scoreboard moving.
Bangladesh, however, staged a brief fightback midway through the second half. Sraboni and her fellow raiders managed to put together a series of points, while the Bangladesh defence also succeeded in slowing India’s attacking momentum.
With around five minutes remaining, Bangladesh had reduced the deficit and threatened to make the closing stages more competitive. India responded strongly, with Sanju Devi producing a series of successful raids to restore a comfortable lead.
India eventually closed out the match 42-21 to make a winning start to their title defence.
India’s total included 11 bonus points and four points from All-Outs, while Bangladesh secured five bonus points and one point through a Super Tackle.
The victory gives India an early advantage in Group A and provides a positive start to their campaign as they seek to retain the Asian Games women’s kabaddi title.
India will next face Iran on Wednesday at 8:30 am in what is expected to be a significant Group A contest. The Indian team will look to carry forward the defensive discipline and attacking consistency displayed in their opening match.
