Tokai City (Japan): Defending champions Indian men’s and women’s kabaddi teams made winning starts to their Asian Games campaign with thumping victories over Japan and Bangladesh in their respective opening matches, Monday.
Last edition’s gold-medallist Indian men’s team began its title defence with a resounding 49-24 win over hosts Japan in their opening group fixture.
Later in the day, the Indian women’s team brushed aside the challenge from Bangladesh with a 42-21 victory to make a winning start.
In the men’s contest, India dominated from the outset, establishing a 31-9 lead by half-time as Ayan Lohchab and Devank Dalal combined effectively in the raiding department at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium.
The defending champions then added 18 more points in the second half.
India finished with 36 out points, eight all-out points and two super-tackle points.
India are placed in Group A alongside Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh.
They will face South Korea in their next match Tuesday.
The Indian women’s team played out two identical halves against Bangladesh to maintain their dominance. India led the contest 21-10 at the halfway mark and returned to the mat to add as many points in the second half.
The women’s team recorded a total of 27 out points, 11 bonus and four all-out points against Bangladesh.
The Indian women’s team is placed in Group A along with Iran, Japan and Bangladesh. They will face Iran in their next fixture.