Kabaddi at Asian Games: Indian women beat Iran, men thrash Bangladesh
Defending champions India continued their strong run in kabaddi at the Asian Games, with both the men's and women's teams registering comprehensive victories in their group-stage matches here on Wednesday.
The women's team defeated 2018 gold medallist Iran 37-23 in its second Group A match, while the men's side thrashed Bangladesh 48-25 in its third Group A fixture.
India led Iran 19-15 at half-time before extending its advantage in the second half to secure a comfortable victory.
"We strategised a lot against Iran, but on the court it was very intense and tough. This is the first time we have won by more than 10 points. Before that, it was always a close match," women's coach Neeta Dadwe said.
Asked who could beat India, Dadwe said, "No one in the world. India are No.1. It is our game. It started in India and we practise it a lot."
She said the team had worked on technique, speed and strength and had confidence in its abilities.
"Almost all the players are top-notch, but Pooja and Nikita are the stars of the Indian team," Dadwe said.
India player Pushpa Rana said the team was aware of Iran's quality but followed the plan laid out by the coaches and senior players.
"Our goal is to win the gold medal," she said.
Rana also expressed hope that kabaddi would become an official Olympic sport in the future.
The men's team was equally dominant, taking a commanding 29-9 lead at half-time against Bangladesh. Although Bangladesh improved in the second half, India remained in control throughout.
The Indian women had earlier defeated Bangladesh 42-21 in their opening group match, while the men had beaten Japan 49-24 and South Korea 63-31.
The women's team will play Japan in its final group match on Thursday, while the men will face Chinese Taipei.
Both Indian teams had won gold medals at the previous Asian Games in Hangzhou.
