Asian Games: Defending champions India storm into kabaddi semi-finals

Defending champions India stormed into the men’s kabaddi semi-finals at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya after completing an unbeaten Group A campaign with a comfortable 37-21 victory over Chinese Taipei at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Thursday.

India finished the group stage with four wins from four matches, previously beating South Korea, Japan and Bangladesh. The result against Chinese Taipei also secured India at least a bronze medal as they continued their bid to retain the title at the Asian Games.

Asian Games 2026: September 24 update

INDIA DOMINATE FROM THE START

India started on the front foot as Aslam Inamdar and Rahul Sethpal combined effectively to put Chinese Taipei under pressure. Sethpal was particularly impressive in defence, his ankle possession repeatedly thwarting Taipei’s attack.

India went all in early to open up a sizeable lead. Chinese Taipei responded with occasional thigh holds and super tackles to stay in the contest while looking for bonus points.

However, India continued to look for points at both ends of the mat. Another all-out before halftime helped the defending champions build a 23-11 lead at the break.

Chinese Taipei tried to defend after the restart, Chung-mao Chang produced an important ankle hold and the team continued to search for bonus points. India remained composed and continued to press through their raiders.

Devank Dalal and Ayan Lohchab helped keep the scoreboard moving as India repeatedly found touches. Their defense also continued to limit Taipei’s scoring opportunities, allowing India to maintain a comfortable cushion.

India eventually secured another all-out as they cemented their grip on the contest. Chinese Taipei managed nine bonus points and two supers during the match but could not match India’s consistency in attack and defence.

India got 28 points from successful runs, three bonus points and six points from all-outs. They won the second half 14-10 to complete the 16-point victory.

The win was extended even further India’s remarkable record in men’s kabaddi at the Asian Games. Since the sport was introduced to the continental event in 1990, India have won nine medals, including eight gold. Their gold medal run was interrupted only at the 2018 Asian Games when they finished with bronze.

India will now play the semi-finals on September 25, with the defending champions two wins away from another Asian Games gold medal.

The Indian women’s team has also started their campaign well. After defeating Bangladesh in their opening match, they defeated Iran 37-23 to record back-to-back victories in Group A. They will face hosts Japan in their next match on Thursday.

– The end

Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

24 Sep 2026 12:27 IST