Asian Games 2026: India beats Bangladesh, begins women’s kabaddi gold-medal defence with win

India’s Rani Raj in action during a raid against Bangladesh at the Asian Games 2026. | Photo Credit: Screenshot via SonyLIV

Indian kabaddi had a great Day 3 at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 after the women’s team began its title defence with a 42-21 win over Bangladesh at the Tokai Citizen Gymnasium on Monday.

The Pushpa Ran-led Indian team led 21-10 at the half-time interval, before the Hangzhou 2023 gold medallists took the game away from the Bangladeshis in the second half.

Mumbai raider Sonali Shingate, who was part of the 2018 silver medal-winning Indian team, impressed as the Indian team inflicted two All Outs on the losing team.

AS IT HAPPENED | India vs Bangladesh Highlights

India also edged the Bangladeshis in terms of bonus points with 11, as compared to Bangladesh’s six. However, the losing team had glimpses of excellence, including a Super Tackle.

Earlier in the day, the Indian men’s team also began its title defence with a 49-24 win over host Japan.

The women will next face arch-rival Iran on Wednesday, while the men play South Korea on Tuesday.