OCTOBER 02, 2023
“Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team’s Thrilling 34-34 Draw”
In a heart-pounding start to their Asian Games campaign, the Indian women’s kabaddi team engaged in a nail-biting 34-34 draw against a spirited Chinese Taipei side in a Group A showdown. The match saw both teams leave no stone unturned, culminating in an electrifying stalemate.
Looking ahead, the women’s team is set to face off against South Korea in a highly anticipated clash on Tuesday, while the men’s squad gears up for a face-off with Bangladesh in their Group A encounter. Despite a less-than-ideal start, the Indian women displayed remarkable resilience to seize the lead by the end of the first half.
The formidable Hsiu-Chen Feng, a standout defender for Chinese Taipei, tested the Indian contingent, yet the latter mounted a spectacular comeback, concluding the first half with a slim 17-15 advantage. Ritu Negi notched the first crucial defensive point for India with a skillful ankle hold, and Pooja Hathwala secured a bonus point in the second half, adding to the excitement.
India surged ahead, amassing a five-point lead at 23-17, and at one point held a commanding 26-20 advantage. However, the Chinese Taipei side roared back into contention, leveling the scoreline. In a tense climax, Nidhi claimed a crucial touch, only for the referees to wave it off. Undeterred, Pooja executed a stellar raid, equalizing the score at 32-32.
With the clock ticking down, India momentarily regained the lead, yet Chinese Taipei refused to be subdued, resulting in a thrilling draw. V. Tejaswini Bai, the Indian team’s spokesperson, attributed the outcome to initial nervousness but exuded confidence in her team’s ability to clinch the gold.
“Our team will persist in the fight, and we will emerge as victors. Today, nerves played a role, but going forward, we will approach the game with composed determination and secure the gold. I believe, and I fervently hope, we will claim the gold.” She also lauded the impressive progress of the Chinese Taipei team over the years, emphasizing, “They are a formidable force, and their ascent in the world of kabaddi is commendable. I’m delighted to witness their unwavering dedication to the sport.”
Match Statistics:
- Final Score: Indian Women’s Team 34 – 34 Chinese Taipei
- First Half Score: Indian Women’s Team 17 – 15 Chinese Taipei
- Top Performer (India): Ritu Negi – Ankle Hold (Defensive Point)
- Top Performer (India): Pooja Hathwala – Bonus Point (Second Half)
- Lead Changes: 5
- Bonus Points Earned (India): 1
- Total Raid Points (India): 18
- Total Defending Points (India): 9
