Sport · India Bureau
India launches Asiad kabaddi title defence with commanding win over Japan
The Indian men's kabaddi team made a strong start to their Asian Games campaign, defeating hosts Japan 49-24 in their opening Group A match. The defending champions will next face South Korea on Tuesday.
LSN India ·
India's men's kabaddi team announced its arrival at the 2026 Asian Games with a dominant performance against Japan on Monday, securing a 49-24 victory in their opening group fixture at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium.
The defending champions controlled proceedings from the opening moments, racing to a commanding 31-9 halftime advantage. Raiding duo Ayan Lohchab and Devank Dalal proved particularly effective in the attacking phase, setting the tone for India's comprehensive display.
India added 18 further points in the second half to seal a convincing win. The team accumulated 36 raid points, eight all-out points and two super-tackle points across the match.
India occupy Group A alongside Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh. The squad will test its credentials against strong challengers when it faces South Korea in their next outing on Tuesday. The Indian women's kabaddi team, also defending its Asian Games title, will launch its campaign against Bangladesh later on Monday.