37-34 thriller! Indian women's team beats Iran to clinch gold in Kabaddi

NAGOYA: India bagged another gold in women's kabaddi at the Asian Games held in Nagoya, Japan. India retained the title by defeating Iran 37-34 in a thrilling final. This marks India's fourth gold medal in women's kabaddi at the Asian Games.

India delivered an impressive performance in the first half, heading into the break with a 22-16 lead. Although Iran staged a strong comeback in the second half, India held firm with solid defensive play. Despite Iran outscoring India 15-18 in the second half, the six-point lead established in the first half proved decisive. Even as Iran ramped up the pressure in the closing moments, India maintained a resolute defence to secure the victory.

India had previously won gold medals in women's kabaddi at the 2010, 2014, and 2022 Asian Games. Apart from the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games—where they lost to Iran and settled for silver—India has won gold in every other edition of the event they participated in. India also emerged as the women's kabaddi champions at the most recent Asian Games held in Hangzhou; they won the gold medal by defeating Chinese Taipei 26–25.

After clinching the title, the Indian athletes celebrated their victory by singing ‘Vande Mataram’. With the gold medal win in women's kabaddi, India's total medal tally at the Asian Games has reached 27. India's haul comprises three gold, 11 silver, and 13 bronze medals. India currently holds the 12th position in the medal standings.