India begin Asian Games kabaddi title defence with crushing 49-24 win over hosts Japan

Defending champions India made an emphatic start to their men’s kabaddi campaign at the Asian Games on Monday, overpowering hosts Japan 49-24 in their opening Group A encounter at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium. India controlled the contest virtually from the opening exchanges, with Ayan Lohchab and Devank Dalal combining effectively in the raiding department to repeatedly breach the Japanese defence. The defending champions raced to a commanding 31-9 advantage by half-time, leaving Japan with a formidable deficit to overcome in the second period.

India dominate early

India’s aggressive raiding and organised defence allowed them to establish control quickly. Japan struggled to contain the Indian raiders as the visitors repeatedly forced their opponents out and inflicted all-outs.

With a 22-point advantage already secured at the interval, India entered the second half firmly in command. Japan produced a more competitive performance after the break, but India maintained sufficient control to prevent the hosts from mounting a serious comeback. The defending champions added another 18 points in the second half to complete a comprehensive 49-24 victory and open their campaign with maximum momentum.

Raiders set the tone

India finished the match with 36 out points, underlining the effectiveness of their raiding unit. They also collected eight points through all-outs and another two from super tackles. Lohchab and Dalal were central to India’s attacking performance, ensuring the defending champions consistently kept Japan’s defence under pressure.

The victory provides India with a strong start in a group that also features South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh. India will return to action against South Korea on Tuesday as they look to strengthen their position in Group A and move closer to the knockout stage.

Women begin defence

India’s women’s kabaddi team, also the defending Asian Games champions, is scheduled to begin its campaign against Bangladesh later on Monday. Both Indian teams arrived at the Games seeking to retain the titles they won at Hangzhou 2023.

The men had defeated Iran in a dramatic final in Hangzhou to reclaim the Asian Games crown, while the women beat Chinese Taipei in the gold-medal contest. Monday’s commanding victory over Japan ensured India’s men began their latest title defence in convincing fashion, with tougher tests awaiting as the tournament progresses.