The Indian women’s beach kabaddi team has reclaimed its throne on the sands of Sanya, China, clinching the gold medal at the 6th Asian Beach Games on Monday, April 27, 2026. In a commanding final performance, the Indian squad defeated Sri Lanka with a score of 47–31, securing India’s first gold of this edition.
This victory marks a historic sixth consecutive title for the Indian women, a streak that spans every edition of the Games since the sport was introduced in 2008.
The Road to Gold: Women’s Results
India’s path to the podium was defined by absolute dominance over their neighbors:
- Final: India 47 – 31 Sri Lanka
- Semifinal: India 50 – 31 Bangladesh
- Group Stage: India 44 – 32 Sri Lanka (Opening Match)
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) Gandhinagar, where the team underwent a rigorous national coaching camp, celebrated the win on social media, stating: “History made in Sanya, China! The hard work… has truly paid off.”
Men’s Team Storms into the Final
Building on the women’s success, the Indian men’s beach kabaddi team has also guaranteed at least a silver medal. They booked their place in the grand final after a convincing 50–27 victory over rivals Pakistan in the semifinals.
Key Men’s Results in Sanya:
- Semifinal: India 50 – 27 Pakistan
- Group B Highlights: India 66 – 23 Chinese Taipei | India 54 – 33 Sri Lanka
The men’s final is expected to be a high-stakes encounter as India looks to upgrade their 2016 silver to gold and mirror the women’s success.
Tournament Context: Sanya 2026
The 2026 Asian Beach Games represent a triumphant return for the multi-sport event after a ten-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent delays.
- Venue: Sanya, Hainan Island, China (known as the “Hawaii of the East”).
- India’s Participation: A 31-member contingent is competing across four disciplines: 3×3 basketball, beach kabaddi, sailing, and beach wrestling.
- Historical Legacy: In the last edition (Da Nang 2016), India finished with 24 medals. Kabaddi remains the nation’s strongest discipline at the Games.
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