Following a historic golden sweep in kabaddi at the Asian Games 2026, the captains of the Indian men’s and women’s teams, Sunil Kumar and Pushpa Rana, highlighted the significance of teamwork in their achievements. Both teams secured their victories against Iran in tightly contested finals. The women’s team won 37-34, successfully defending their title, while the men’s team rallied from behind to clinch a 40-34 win, marking their record ninth gold in this sport at the Asian Games.

Sunil Kumar emphasized the vital role of his team’s collaboration, asserting that leadership alone cannot secure a tournament victory. He stated that the collective effort among teammates was crucial, revealing his determination to continue achieving success for India. He remarked: “No captain can win a tournament alone; it requires a team. Our team played cohesively as a unit, and that is why we won the gold.”

Pushpa Rana echoed similar sentiments, expressing her elation over the warm reception they received upon returning to India. She described the emotional experience of listening to the national anthem after securing the gold medal as truly special. The captain credited their success to hard work and a solid belief in their game plan, executed in line with their coaches’ instructions. “We literally thought that when we return home, we would receive such a welcome,” she expressed.

Coaches and Players Share Their Perspectives

Balwan Singh, the head coach of the men’s kabaddi team, conveyed that the victory was a collective achievement for the nation. He acknowledged the substantial backing from citizens, the government, and relevant sports bodies, which he believed had motivated the team significantly throughout the competition. Singh expressed optimism regarding India’s future in kabaddi, stating, “This is the victory of the entire nation. Our country is strong, and we will continue to win.”

Raj Rani, a member of the women’s kabaddi team, shared her delight at winning her first gold medal, praising the teamwork displayed during the tournament. She highlighted the significance of both teams achieving gold medals and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing this trajectory. “It feels very good; we got the gold. And we feel very good that our team, both boys and girls, got the gold; we feel very good,” she said.

Both captains and players articulated a sense of national pride stemming from their victories. The display of unity and hard work not only defined their performances but also resonated with supporters who cheered them on throughout the Games. Sunil Kumar and Pushpa Rana, alongside their teammates, look forward to future competitions, aiming to build upon their recent success.

Celebrations and Future Aspirations

The Indian kabaddi teams’ victorious return to India concluded with an enthusiastic welcome at the Delhi Airport, exemplifying the nation’s embrace of their sporting achievements. The players and coaches expressed immense gratitude for the support received, both on and off the field. Sharing a common goal, the team remains focused on continuous improvement and is determined to elevate Indian kabaddi on the international stage further.

With significant achievements now behind them, both teams are poised to approach upcoming tournaments with renewed ambition. Confidence marks their discussions about the future, with each athlete eyeing more opportunities to excel and enhance their achievements in kabaddi. The gold medals attained at the Asian Games will undoubtedly serve as motivation as they continue to train and compete at the highest levels.

As they reflect on their recent successes, the Indian kabaddi teams prepare to inspire the next generation of players, reinforcing the sport’s integral place in the country’s athletic landscape. Their strong performances not only reinforce their status in the sport but also serve to galvanise national pride among kabaddi enthusiasts across India.

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