Asian Games 2026: The Indian women’s kabaddi team started their campaign to retain the title at the Asian Games 2026 with a resounding victory. India defeated Bangladesh by 42-21 points in the first match of Group-A on Monday. In this match organized at Tokai Citizens Gymnasium in Aichi, the Indian players showed power from the beginning. In addition to attack, India keeps Bangladesh under pressure in solid defense.
Excellent attack-defense balance
The Indian team kept themselves in control from the beginning of the match. India’s defense made it difficult for Bangladesh to reach the bonus line. On the other hand, India continued to collect points regularly from successful Reds. Bangladesh captain Shravani Mouli tried to score some points but the Indian defense limited her chances a lot. Sanju Devi played an important role in the attack.
A big difference in the first half
Manisha Kumari particularly caught the eye from left cover for India. Sonali Shingate and skipper Pushpa Rana also added important points in attack. India bowled out Bangladesh once in the first half. As a result, the Indian team was ahead by 21-10 points at the break. In the first 20 minutes, India established their control in the match.
Same picture in the second half
India’s dominance continued in the second half as well. Sanju Devi and Pooja quickly touch hands to pick up points. India created pressure on the Bangladesh raiders by maintaining a high line in defence. This strategy also has benefits. In the second half, India made another all-out and widened the gap.
Bangladesh fight at the end
However, Bangladesh tried to turn around at the end of the match. Other raiders of Bangladesh, including Shravani, picked up a few points in a row. Bangladesh’s defense also managed to slow down India’s attack to some extent. Five minutes before the end of the match, the gap narrowed slightly, but India quickly took control of the situation. Sanju Devi made a big gap again with one successful red after another.
Sanju’s big victory
In the end, India won easily by 42-21 points. India’s total of 42 points included 11 bonus points and four all-out points. Bangladesh had five bonus points and a super tackle point. The win gave the Indian women’s team a confident start to their quest to retain the title. This time, India will take the field against Iran at 8:30 am on Wednesday. The goal in the next match will be to maintain the winning streak against Bangladesh.