– by Pratyusha Mukherjee, Aichi-Nagoya,Japan
Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, September 24, 2026: India completed an unbeaten group-stage campaign in the men’s kabaddi competition at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, defeating Chinese Taipei 37-21 in their final Group A fixture at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Thursday.
India made a confident start, with Aslam Inamdar and Rahul Sethpal combining effectively to put the Chinese Taipei raiders under pressure. Sethpal’s sharp ankle holds proved decisive as India quickly established control and inflicted an early All-Out.
Chinese Taipei responded with timely thigh holds and Super Tackles to remain in contention, but India continued to collect points at both ends of the mat. A second All-Out further strengthened India’s advantage, sending them into the break with a 23-11 lead.
After the interval, Chinese Taipei looked to capitalise on bonus opportunities, while India relied on Devank Dalal and Ayan Lohchab to maintain their attacking momentum. Chung-mao Chang produced an important ankle hold for Taipei as they attempted to narrow the deficit, but India’s raiders continued to apply pressure and helped their side secure another All-Out.
India remained composed in the closing stages, with their defence restricting Chinese Taipei’s scoring opportunities while the raiders continued to add points. The defending champions eventually sealed a convincing 37-21 victory to finish at the top of Group A with an unbeaten record.
India’s tally included three bonus points and six points from All-Outs, while Chinese Taipei registered nine bonus points and two Super Tackles.
India will now advance to the semi-finals on September 25, with a place in the gold-medal match at stake.
