New Delhi. The Indian women’s kabaddi side retained its Asian Games title after edging Iran 37‑34 in a tightly contested final. Despite a spirited comeback from the Iranians in the second half, India held firm in the dying minutes to secure the gold medal.
India Sets the Pace Early
The match opened evenly, with both squads exchanging points in the first few minutes. India's raiders and defenders soon found rhythm, applying sustained pressure that forced an early all‑out against Iran and gave India a 13‑10 lead. The team continued to extend the gap, ending the first half ahead 22‑16.
Iran Narrows the Gap After the Break
Coming out of the interval, Iran launched a determined attack, trimming the deficit and even securing an all‑out of their own. The contest grew tense as the Iranian side pressed hard, but India’s disciplined defence and timely raids restored a comfortable margin at crucial junctures.
India Keeps Its Cool in the Final Minutes
The closing stage turned into a point‑for‑point battle. India maintained an aggressive raiding strategy while its defence stayed composed under pressure. The Indian players delivered when it mattered most, thwarting Iran’s late surge and sealing a 37‑34 win to claim the gold.
Earlier Encounter in the Group Phase
India had already faced Iran during the group stage, cruising to a 37‑23 triumph. The final victory completed an unbeaten campaign and cemented India’s dominance in women’s kabaddi at the Asian Games.
