India completed a flawless group-stage campaign in the men’s kabaddi competition at the 2026 Asian Games with a comfortable 37-21 victory over Chinese Taipei at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Thursday.
The defending champions finished top of Group A with four wins from four matches, extending their unbeaten run after earlier victories over Japan, the Republic of Korea and Bangladesh. Across the group stage, India scored 197 points while conceding just 101 to comfortably secure a place in the semi-finals.
India Build Strong First-Half Advantage
India seized control from the opening exchanges through an impressive defensive display. Aslam Inamdar and Rahul Sethpal combined effectively in the right corner, with Sethpal producing a series of well-timed ankle holds that repeatedly halted the Chinese Taipei raiders.
An early All-Out gave India immediate momentum, and the defending champions continued to dominate both in attack and defence. Although Chinese Taipei managed occasional Super Tackles and thigh holds to stay within reach, India continued to score consistently at both ends of the mat.
A second All-Out before the interval extended India’s advantage, sending them into half-time with a commanding 23-11 lead.
Raiders Maintain Control After the Break
Chinese Taipei looked to reduce the deficit after the restart by collecting valuable bonus points, but India’s raiding unit ensured the gap remained comfortable.
Devank Dalal and Ayan Lohchab continued to find successful touches, keeping the scoreboard moving throughout the second half.
Chung-mao Chang produced an impressive ankle hold as Chinese Taipei searched for momentum, but India quickly responded by increasing the attacking pressure. Another All-Out further strengthened India’s position and effectively ended any hopes of a comeback.
India’s defence remained disciplined in the closing stages, limiting Chinese Taipei’s scoring opportunities while the raiders comfortably managed the game to complete a 37-21 victory.
India Finish Top of Group A
India collected three bonus points and six All-Out points during the contest, while Chinese Taipei finished with nine bonus points and two Super Tackle points.
The victory completed a dominant group-stage campaign for India, whose four wins came by margins of 25, 32, 23 and 16 points.
The team now advances to semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of a ninth men’s kabaddi gold medal at the Asian Games.
Thailand Await in the Semi-Finals
India will face Thailand in the semi-finals after the Southeast Asian side secured second place in Group B.
Thailand booked their place by edging Pakistan 48-45 in a decisive contest before Pakistan’s 51-30 defeat to Iran confirmed the final standings.
Iran finished unbeaten at the top of Group B and will face the runners-up from Group A in the other semi-final, while India and Thailand will battle for a place in the gold medal match.
