Asian Games 2026: Indian Men's Kabaddi Team Begins Title Defence with Dominant 49-24 Win Over Japan

Defending champions India made a resounding start to their Asian Games 2026 kabaddi campaign, cruising to a 49-24 victory over host nation Japan in their opening Group A match in Aichi-Nagoya on Monday. The Indian men's team, aiming to retain their gold medal, showed supreme tactical dominance and physical authority from the opening whistle to extend their unbeaten record against Japan in Asian Games history. The victory was spearheaded by impressive performances from debutants Ayan Lohchab, Devank Dalal, and Ashu Malik, who spearheaded the attack with explosive raids. India set the tone early in the match, inflicting three all-outs on Japan in the first half alone to establish a commanding 31-9 lead at the break. Defender Rahul Sethpal and captain Pawan Sehrawat held the defensive line firm, restricting Japan's scoring primarily to minor bonus points. Although Japan showed greater resilience in the second period, India maintained firm control over the tempo, rotating players and testing their bench strength. The comprehensive win places India at the top of Group A ahead of their crucial second group match against South Korea on Tuesday. With the top two teams from each group qualifying for the semi-finals, India's commanding opening performance sends a strong message to rival nations vying for podium honors at the continental spectacle.