India Begin Asian Games Kabaddi Title Defence With Big Wins

Defending champions India began their Asian Games 2026 kabaddi campaign in dominant fashion, with both the men’s and women’s teams registering convincing victories in their respective opening matches here on Monday.

The Indian men’s team, which won gold at the previous edition, defeated hosts Japan 49-24 in its opening Group A fixture.

Later in the day, the Indian women’s team also made a strong start, comfortably beating Bangladesh 42-21.

India Men Dominate Japan

The defending champions established their superiority from the beginning against Japan, taking a commanding 31-9 lead at half-time.

Ayan Lohchab and Devank Dalal led India’s raiding efforts as the team repeatedly troubled the Japanese defence at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium.

India added another 18 points after the break to complete a 25-point victory.

The Indian side finished with 36 out points, eight all-out points and two super-tackle points.

India are placed in Group A alongside Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh.

The men’s team will face South Korea in its next match on Tuesday.

Indian Women Also Off To Winning Start

The Indian women’s team produced a similarly assured performance against Bangladesh.

India led 21-10 at half-time and maintained the same scoring rate after the break to complete a 42-21 victory.

The defending champions collected 27 out points, 11 bonus points and four all-out points in the contest.

The Indian women’s team are in Group A with Iran, Japan and Bangladesh.

They will next face Iran as they continue their campaign in the Asian Games 2026 kabaddi competition.

With both teams opening their title defences with emphatic wins, India have made an early statement in their bid to retain the men’s and women’s kabaddi gold medals.