India Women Win Kabaddi Gold, Secure Third Gold

India continued its strong campaign at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, as the women’s kabaddi team defeated Iran 37-34 in the final to win the gold medal. The victory gave India its third gold medal of the Games and allowed the women’s team to successfully defend the title it won at the previous edition.

The final was closely contested, with both teams putting up a strong fight throughout the match. Iran managed to keep the pressure on India for large portions of the contest, but the Indian players remained composed during the crucial stages. India eventually finished the final with a 37-34 victory.

The result is particularly significant because India entered the competition as the defending champions. The women’s team maintained its unbeaten run through the campaign and secured its place in the final after defeating Nepal 48-24 in the semifinal. Iran reached the final after beating Chinese Taipei 23-19.

India and Iran had already met during the group stage. India won that encounter 37-23, but the final was a much tighter contest. Iran improved its challenge in the title match, forcing India to remain focused until the final whistle. India ultimately managed to hold its advantage and secure the gold with a three-point victory.

The women’s kabaddi gold adds another major medal to India’s campaign at the 2026 Asian Games. India had earlier secured its first gold through the women’s T20 cricket team, while athletes in several other disciplines have also contributed medals to the country’s tally

September 26 has been a busy day for the Indian contingent, with athletes competing across kabaddi, badminton, shooting, athletics, squash, boxing, hockey and several other sports. The men’s kabaddi team was also scheduled to play Iran in its gold-medal final later in the day, giving India another opportunity to add to its medal tally.

PV Sindhu Starts Badminton Campaign With Win

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu also began her women’s singles campaign with a victory. She defeated Chinese Taipei’s Chiu Pin-Chian 21-19, 21-14 in straight games. Sindhu took some time to settle into the opening game but improved her control and rhythm as the match progressed.

Her next challenge is expected to be tougher, with Japan’s world No. 7 Tomoka Miyazaki awaiting her in the next round. With matches being played in quick succession, recovery will also be important for Sindhu as she continues her Asian Games campaign.

Sawan Barwal Wins Marathon Silver

India also added a significant medal in athletics through Sawan Barwal, who won silver in the men’s marathon. Barwal clocked 2:11:37, registering a personal best and a new national record. His medal ended India’s 44-year wait for a podium finish in the Asian Games marathon event.

India’s Medal Campaign Continues

India continues to have medal opportunities across several disciplines. The women’s 50m rifle 3 positions team has also secured a silver medal, while Indian athletes remain involved in squash, athletics, boxing and men’s kabaddi.

The women’s kabaddi victory has therefore become one of the key moments of India’s September 26 campaign. With a 37-34 win over Iran, the Indian team retained its Asian Games title and added another gold to the country’s medal tally.