India retain Asian Games women’s kabaddi gold after 37-34 win over Iran

India retained the Asian Games women’s kabaddi gold after defeating Iran 37-34 in a closely contested final in Japan. The victory gave India their fourth gold medal in the event and completed captain Pushpa Rana’s first Asian Games title as team leader. India held a six-point advantage at half-time, leading 22-16.

The champions collected 16 out points, three bonus points and an all-out in the opening period, while Iran stayed close through seven bonus points. Iran increased the pressure after the interval and won the second half 18-15. The team reduced India’s lead to 27-26 after completing an all-out, bringing the Indian side under sustained pressure for the first time in the match.

India responded through a crucial Super Raid by Sanju Devi. Pushpa then helped produce another all-out, allowing India to rebuild its advantage. Pooja added further points as Iran’s defence began to lose ground.

The raiding contest favoured India, who recorded 26 out points compared with Iran’s 21. Iran gained eight bonus points to India’s six and also produced a Super Tackle, but its late challenge was not enough to overturn the deficit. Pushpa Rana said the team had continued to believe it would win even when Iran reduced the margin.

She attributed the result to the unity of the players and the support offered when individuals came under pressure. The captain also credited the coaches for preparing the team in a relaxed and motivating environment. India have now won four of the five Asian Games women’s kabaddi gold medals, according to the supplied report.