Stories
India Dominates Japan 49-24 in Asian Games Kabaddi Opener; Medals in Shooting, MMA
N
News18•21-09-2026, 11:15
India Dominates Japan 49-24 in Asian Games Kabaddi Opener; Medals in Shooting, MMA
- •India's men's kabaddi team began their Asian Games 2026 campaign with a commanding 49-24 victory over Japan in Aichi-Nagoya.
- •India quickly established control, inflicting two all-outs and leading 31-9 at halftime, with Ashu, Devank, Sunil Kumar, and Rahul excelling.
- •Despite Japan's increased resistance in the second half, India maintained dominance, securing a strong start to their tournament.
- •India also had a successful day across other sports, securing silver and bronze in shooting, and a bronze medal in mixed martial arts.
- •Athletes progressed in swimming and secured wins in boxing, soft tennis, and table tennis, showcasing a strong overall performance.
Key Questions Answered
India defeated hosts Japan 49-24 in their opening men's kabaddi match of the Asian Games 2026 on Monday.
Defending champions India are placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh, South Korea, Chinese Taipei, and hosts Japan.
Only four members of India's gold-winning men's team from Hangzhou 2023—Arjun Deshwal, Sunil Kumar, Pawan Sehrawat, and Aslam Inamdar—have been retained for the Asian Games 2026 squad.
