The Indian women’s kabaddi team completed an unbeaten Group A campaign at the 2026 Asian Games with a commanding 50-25 win over Japan on Thursday, securing a place in the semifinals.
The defending champions finished the group stage with three wins from as many matches after another strong all-round performance.
Captain Pushpa Rana led India’s charge as the team made a blistering start, taking a 32-13 lead at half-time. India registered 23 out points and five bonus points, along with two All Outs, to establish a 19-point advantage.
Japan put up greater resistance after the break and scored 12 points in the second half, including eight outs, two bonus points and a Super Tackle. India remained in control, adding 18 points through 14 outs, two bonus points and an All Out to seal the win.
Japan started the second half strongly, with Yuri opening the scoring before the hosts added three more points in quick succession. India soon regained control through effective raids and defensive tackles.
A third All Out further extended India’s lead, while Japan managed a bonus point with its final raid before the defending champions closed out the contest.
India had opened their campaign with a 42-21 win over Bangladesh before defeating Iran 37-23 in their second Group A match.
Earlier on Thursday, the Indian men’s team also maintained its unbeaten record with a 37-21 win over Chinese Taipei in its final Group A fixture at the same venue.
The men’s team had secured a semifinal berth after defeating Bangladesh on Wednesday, a result that also guaranteed India a medal. India finished top of Group A and will play its semifinal on September 25.
Against Chinese Taipei, India registered three bonus points and six All-Out points, while the opponents scored nine bonus points and executed two Super Tackles.
(IANS Inputs)
