India emerged victorious over Iran, the reigning champions of the men’s Junior World Kabaddi Championship. The match started with both teams scoring a point each in the opening raid, but it was India that managed to gain an advantage when they successfully used their allotted review inside the opening five minutes. Although Iran was awarded three raid points by the referees, the third umpire ruled in favour of India. Narender Kandola and Manjeet Sharma played a crucial role in this win as they were able to keep up the momentum throughout the game and ensured that no lapse in defense happened at any moment. This phenomenal win strengthens India’s position among other contenders for future international kabaddi championships.
The opening ten minutes of the match saw two teams take five reviews and many stoppages, before the host team managed to inflict the first all-out. This gave them a solid four point lead (15-11), which India was determined not to let slip away. In response, India fought back strongly, stretching and pushing their opponents to their limits. By half time, the hosts had their noses barely in front with one point taking their score to 18-19. With some minor adjustments, the Indians felt confident that they could retake the lead and go on for a victorious win.
India’s victory in the Pro Kabaddi League final against Iran proved to be an exhilarating and nail-biting experience. After a tumultuous back-and-forth between the two teams, at 31-32, India was down to just three players left on the mat and a deficit of one point. Despite these odds, Narender Kandola was able to rise to the occasion, scoring crucial points and stabilizing his team’s lead through bonus and tackle points. His skillful play eventually led India to a five point lead (36 to 31) with only three minutes remaining on the clock, dashing all hopes for Iran who were unable to capitalise on their momentum. It was an intense finale indeed!
With an impressive defensive line, Indian captain Ankush Rathee was able to lead India to a notable victory at the second edition of the men’s Junior World Kabaddi Championship. His careful eye and tactical techniques allowed for his defenders to not take too many risks and therefore, enabled them to make fewer unsuccessful and advanced tackles- resulting in India securing a nine-point margin against Iran (41-33). With India taking first place, Pakistan and Nepal claimed joint bronze medallist status with Pakistan holding consecutive wins on the matter. It was an outstanding achievement for Captain Rathee who was able to strategically outwit his competitors.
The culmination of a thrilling five-day Kabaddi tournament held in Urmia, Iran left the crowd in roaring applause as Indian team emerged as victors by dethroning Iran 41-33 in the final. As India reached the finals after crushing their arch rival Pakistan 75-29, Iran made their way to the summit clash after defeating Nepal 60-37 in a tough semi-final contest. Unfortunately, Nepal and Pakistan had to accept bronze awards as they were unable to make it past the semis. Nevertheless, a spectacular tournament with countless twists and turns brought joy to all participating teams and supporters alike.
