India’s men’s kabaddi side beat Iran 40-34 in Saturday’s final at Tokai Citizen Gymnasium, earning its ninth Asian Games gold medal and extending its record in the event.
The teams traded points through raids, tackles and bonus plays in a tense opening half.
Iran briefly took the lead and carried an 18-17 advantage into the interval after scoring an important all-out against the defending champions.
India stayed close through its defensive efforts, collecting two super-tackle points, 11 out points, three bonus points and one technical point.
Iran’s first-half tally included 14 out points, a bonus point and a super-tackle point.
The sides resumed with the score tied at 20-20, but India gradually shifted the momentum.
Sumit made several important thigh tackles, helping the defence contain Iran’s raiders.
India then completed an all-out, with Rahul’s successful tackle helping the team establish a 29-24 lead.
The Indians sustained their pressure in both departments and closed out the final 40-34.
The victory delivered India its fourth gold medal at the ongoing Games.
India’s women had earlier retained their Asian Games kabaddi title after defeating Iran 37-34.
The result gave India a fourth women’s kabaddi gold in the competition’s history and its third gold medal at the current Games.
The Indian team held a 22-16 lead at half-time after controlling much of the first period.
Iran mounted a strong challenge after the interval, scoring 18 points to India’s 15.
The early advantage proved enough for the Women in Blue, who kept their composure in the closing stages to secure the three-point win and retain their title.
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