Defending champions India began their women’s kabaddi title defence at the 2026 Asian Games with a 42-21 victory over Bangladesh in their opening Group A match at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Monday.
India controlled the contest from the outset, combining a disciplined defence with consistent attacking pressure. Sanju Devi led India’s attacking effort, while Manisha Kumari, Sonali Shingate and captain Pushpa Rana also made important contributions.
India restricted Bangladesh’s access to the bonus line and regularly picked up points through successful raids. Bangladesh captain Sraboni Mollick kept her side on the scoreboard, but India’s defence maintained control.
India secured an All-Out and went into the half-time break with a 21-10 lead.
The Indian team continued its attacking approach after the break, with Sanju Devi and Pooja finding quick hand touches while the defence maintained pressure on Bangladesh’s raiders. India secured another All-Out to extend their advantage.
Bangladesh briefly reduced the deficit with a series of points from Sraboni and other raiders. However, India regained control in the closing stages, with Sanju Devi producing a series of successful raids to seal the 42-21 win.
India’s 42 points included 11 bonus points and four All-Out points, while Bangladesh registered five bonus points and one Super Tackle point.
India will next face Iran on September 23 at 8:30 AM IST in their second Group A match.
-IANS
