Kabaddi has been a full medal sport at the Asian Games since 1990, and the competition has produced several unforgettable matches. From dramatic finals and huge comebacks to historic upsets, Asian Games kabaddi has repeatedly delivered moments that have shaped the sport’s history.
The best kabaddi matches in Asian Games history include several India versus Iran battles, as well as a memorable women’s final between India and Chinese Taipei. These contests were decided by small margins, late defensive plays and moments of individual brilliance.
1. India vs Iran, Men’s Final, Hangzhou 2022
The 33-29 victory for India over Iran in the men’s final at Hangzhou remains one of the most dramatic Asian Games kabaddi matches. With the score level at 28-28 and little time remaining, Indian captain Pawan Sehrawat attempted a do-or-die raid before stepping into the lobby.
Iranian defenders followed him into the area, leading to a major dispute over the interpretation of the lobby rules. The officials and technical jury spent a long period discussing the incident before India were eventually awarded three points compared with one for Iran. The decision helped India secure a 33-29 victory and reclaim the men’s gold medal.
2. India vs Iran, Men’s Final, Incheon 2014
The 2014 final is among the greatest Asian Games kabaddi matches because of India’s remarkable comeback. Iran took control early and India faced an eight-point deficit at half-time, trailing 13-21.
Anup Kumar, Rakesh Kumar and Manjeet Chhillar helped India change the momentum after the break. India improved their defence and made important raids during the closing stages to complete a 27-25 comeback victory.
3. Iran vs India, Men’s Semifinal, Jakarta 2018
This match changed the history of Asian Games kabaddi. Iran defeated India 27-18 in the semifinal, ending India’s extraordinary unbeaten run in the competition.
Iran’s defence successfully restricted India’s star raiders, including Ajay Thakur, Monu Goyat and Pardeep Narwal. The defeat meant India had to settle for bronze and ended their 28-year run as Asian Games champions.
4. India vs Chinese Taipei, Women’s Final, Hangzhou 2022
India defeated Chinese Taipei 26-25 in one of the most closely fought women’s finals. Neither team was able to establish a comfortable advantage during a tense contest.
Pushpa Rana and Pooja Hathwala produced important points for India, but Chinese Taipei had a chance to level the match with their final raid. India’s defence held firm with a crucial ankle hold, allowing India to secure the one-point victory and another Asian Games gold medal.
5. Iran vs India, Women’s Final, Jakarta 2018
The 2018 women’s final created another historic result. India initially led 13-8, but Iran fought back strongly after half-time through captain Ghazal Khalaj and raider Sedigheh Jafari.
Iran produced an important all out to move ahead and eventually held on for a 26-24 victory. The result gave Iran their first women’s kabaddi gold at the Asian Games and ended India’s eight-year reign in the event.
Most Memorable Kabaddi Matches
These five contests demonstrate why kabaddi has become one of the most exciting sports at the Asian Games. The matches featured dramatic comebacks, narrow victories, major upsets and crucial defensive moments.
Among the most memorable kabaddi matches, the India – Iran rivalry stands out across both men’s and women’s competitions. However, India’s battles with Chinese Taipei and the historic 2018 results showed how quickly the competitive balance in Asian kabaddi could change.
