By Adala Anvith Reddy
OCA Youth Reporter from India
Nagoya, Japan, September 26, 2026: India's women's kabaddi team won a closely fought contest, beating Iran 37-34 to win their second consecutive gold medal at the Asian Games.
Coached by Neeta Moreshwar and led by captain Rana Pushpa, the Indian team had a good start, securing the first half with a score line of 22-16. This included 16 out points, 3 bonus, 2 all out points and a single technical point to give them a six-point lead at the end of the first half.
Iran, captained by Karimi Zahra and coached by Mazandarini Gholamreza, tried to reduce the deficit in the second half, but it proved to be too much to make up despite a valiant attempt.
Iran secured 14 out points, 1 bonus point, 2 all out points and 1 super tackle for an impressive 18-point second half against India’s 15.
Speaking after the match, India’s captain Rana Pushpa said: “It feels great to win a gold medal, especially against a team such as Iran, who played exceptionally well.
“It was such a close contest that ultimately boiled down to a handful of mistakes that we capitalized on to secure the finish. I dedicate this victory to all the people of India who have motivated us and given us their blessings. They all deserve the credit.”