We never doubt: India will fulfill Pushpa Rana’s dream with Asian Games kabaddi gold

For Pushpa Rana, coming to the Asian Games, the goal was simple. It was her second time at the Games and her debut as the captain of the Indian women’s kabaddi team. And as she leaves Japan, the Indian captain will return with a gold medal around her neck, all thanks to her team.

“You can probably see from my eyes how happy I am. This has been my dream for a very long time. When a player starts playing, to represent his country as a leader is always a dream. I got the opportunity to lead India and I am going home with a gold medal. I am extremely happy and honestly cannot express my feelings,” Pushpa said.

India beat Iran in thriller to win women’s kabaddi gold, fourth overall. But the Indian women were made to work for their gold medal in the final, which was a far cry from their relatively comfortable wins earlier in the tournament.

ASIAN GAMES, UPDATE 26 SEPTEMBER

Iran kept within touch almost throughout the contest, forcing the Indian team to withstand sustained pressure before eventually securing a 37-34 victory.

The run-in battle went India’s way, with the champions amassing 26 points compared to Iran’s 21. However, Iran prevailed with the bonus points, taking eight to India’s six and ensuring the game remained tied well into the second half.

India built a six-point cushion at halftime and went into the break trailing 22-16. They managed 16 out points, three bonus points and an all-out in the opening 15 minutes. Iran remained competitive mainly thanks to their seven bonus points, but India were able to create key moments where the teams came together.

NEVER IN DOUBT

The momentum shifted after the restart as Iran increased the intensity. They won the second half 18-15 and eventually reduced India’s lead to a single point at 27-26 after an All-Out finish. India were under serious pressure for the first time in the match.

But even at that moment, Pushpa never doubted her team.

“Our mindset all along was that whatever happens, the match will remain in our favour. We wanted to fight till the last minute and we believed we would win,” Pushpa said.

That was when Sanju Devi produced a crucial Super Raid to give India the much needed breathing space. The skipper also stepped up and then followed it up by making another All-Out, allowing India to regain control of the contest.

Pooja added more points as Iran’s defense began to show signs of uncertainty and stretched India’s advantage. The Iranian side continued to fight, producing a Super Tackle and adding 14 points during the second half, but their late push failed.

India held on to complete a successful defense of their crown. Pusha summed it up best with her parting words on the day about the team and what made the win special.

“Our team unity was the biggest factor. Whenever a match got tough or someone got under pressure, the whole team was there to support them. Our coaches also played a huge role. They always prepared us for the matches in a relaxed, fun and motivating environment and helped us step on the mat with confidence,” said Pushpa.

India have now won four of the five women’s kabaddi golds at the Asian Games.

– The end