Defending champions India made a strong start to their men’s kabaddi campaign at the 2026 Asian Games, thrashing hosts Japan 49-24 in their opening Group A match on Monday, September 21. The contest was played at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium in Aichi Prefecture.
Captain Sunil Kumar’s side dominated from the outset and never looked in trouble. India raced to an early lead, inflicting multiple all-outs and building a commanding 31-9 advantage by half-time. Ashu Malik’s three-point Super Raid set the tone early, while Asian Games debutants Ayan Lohchab and Devank Dalal, along with experienced raiders, kept the Japanese defence under constant pressure
India finished with 36 out points, eight all-out points and two super-tackle points. Japan managed to score more freely in the second half but could not close the gap as the defending champions stayed firmly in control.
Ashu Malik – Impactful Super Raid and strong start
Ayan Lohchab & Devank Dalal – Effective raiding combination
Rahul Sethpal & Sunil Kumar – Solid defensive contributions
India are placed in Group A alongside Japan, South Korea, Chinese Taipei and Bangladesh. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
India face the Republic of Korea in their second group match on Tuesday, September 22.India remain the most successful nation in Asian Games kabaddi history, having won 11 of the 13 men’s titles on offer.
The team is aiming to retain the gold they won at Hangzhou 2022 (often referred to in reports as the previous edition).The women’s team, also defending champions, opened their campaign later the same day with a 42-21 win over Bangladesh.
With a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young raiders, India have begun their title defence in emphatic fashion and will look to maintain momentum through the group stage.