India launched their campaign to retain the women’s kabaddi title at the 2026 Asian Games, overcoming Bangladesh 42-21 in a Group A contest at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium in Aichi.
Quick Glance
- India defeated Bangladesh 42-21 in their opening Group A match of the women’s kabaddi competition.
- Sanju Devi played a key attacking role as India maintained pressure throughout the contest.
- India will face Iran at 8:30 AM on Wednesday in their next match.
India began their bid to retain the women’s kabaddi title at the 2026 Asian Games with a commanding victory over Bangladesh on September 21.
The Indian team secured a 42-21 win in their opening Group A fixture at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium. The result gave the defending champions an early boost in their campaign.
India controlled the contest from the opening stages. Their defence restricted Bangladesh’s chances of collecting bonus points. At the same time, the Indian raiders kept adding points through successful attacks.
Sanju Devi emerged as an important figure in Team India’s offensive play. Her contribution helped the team maintain a steady scoring rate as the match progressed.
Defence Gives India Early Control
India’s defensive organisation made it difficult for Bangladesh to build momentum.
Bangladesh captain Sraboni Mollick continued to find points for her team. However, India repeatedly limited the opportunities available to Bangladesh’s raiders.
Manisha Kumari produced an effective display from the left-cover position. Sonali Shingate and captain Pushpa Rana also contributed valuable points in attack.
India’s pressure eventually resulted in an All-Out. That gave the defending champions a significant advantage and helped them take a 21-10 lead into the half-time break.
The 11-point margin reflected India’s control during the opening half. Bangladesh had moments of resistance but struggled to match India’s consistency.
India Maintain Pressure After Break
India returned for the second half with the same intensity.
Sanju Devi and Pooja made an impact with quick hand touches. The defensive unit also maintained a high line, keeping pressure on Bangladesh’s raiders.
The strategy continued to work for India. Their sustained pressure produced another All-Out and further strengthened their position in the match.
Sanju Devi remained central to India’s attacking efforts. Her successful raids kept the scoreboard moving and prevented Bangladesh from closing the gap quickly.
Bangladesh Stage Brief Fightback
Bangladesh did not surrender without a fight.
Sraboni and the other raiders managed to string together consecutive points. Bangladesh’s defence also improved during this period and succeeded in slowing India’s attacking momentum.
The change briefly brought Bangladesh closer to India. With five minutes remaining, the deficit had narrowed and the contest appeared to be entering a more competitive phase.
India responded at the crucial stage.
Sanju Devi produced a series of successful raids to rebuild India’s advantage. Her late attacking contribution helped the defending champions regain clear control and move towards the finish without further pressure.
India eventually completed a 42-21 victory.
India’s Scoring Breakdown
India’s final tally of 42 points included 11 bonus points and four points from All-Outs.
Bangladesh collected five bonus points during the contest. They also secured one Super Tackle point.
The figures underline India’s ability to combine attacking production with defensive pressure. The team maintained its advantage despite Bangladesh’s second-half fightback.
Iran Next for Defending Champions
The victory gives India a winning beginning to their title defence in Aichi-Nagoya.
The women’s team will now turn their attention to their next Group A challenge against Iran. The match is scheduled for 8:30 AM on Wednesday.
India will look to carry the momentum from their opening victory into that contest. Their performance against Bangladesh provided a strong start, with both the raiding unit and defence contributing to the 21-point winning margin. (Edited by Enewstime Desk)