KABADDI CHAMPS!

India beat Iran with terrific 38-29 win in final

In a match contested between two titans of Kabaddi, India beat a resolute Iran side 38-29 to become the world champions. Riding on a terrific performance by Ajay Thakur’s 12 points, India produced a strong comeback in the second half at the TransStadia Arena in Ahmedabad to send the packed crowd into raptures.

It has been an enthralling two weeks, as Kabaddi truly become a global game. The 2016 World Cup provided with thrills, excitement and reached out to the hearts of millions across the world. India lived up to their favourites tag and delighted their fans all over the country.

The final was like a boxing bout as both teams traded punches and gave it as good as they got. India struck the early blows as Sandeep Narwal and Ajay Thakur scored raid points to lead 2-0 in the third minute. Meraj Sheykh scored Iran’s first point as they leveled the game at 2-2 in the fourth minute. Iran’s defence were up for it as they contained Pardeep Narwal effectively and then sent Ajay Thakur to the bench to lead 5-4 in the eighth minute.

The match lived up to its expectations as both teams fought hard and refused to give an inch. Skipper Anup Kumar scored his trademark bonus point to level the scores at 6-6 in the 10th minute. Meraj Sheykh scored with an excellent raid and reduced India to just three men as Iran led 9-7 in the 13th minute. India’s defence had a below par first 15 minutes as they scored just one tackle point. Iran reduced India to just two men but a brilliant super tackle by Mohit Chhillar the 16th minute to cut the lead to just one point again.