New Delhi, India — As the Asian Games 2025 in Hangzhou, China, draw closer, the Indian men’s and women’s kabaddi teams are gearing up with one goal in mind: to clinch the gold medal. Kabaddi, a sport deeply ingrained in India’s cultural fabric, has seen the nation dominate the international stage for decades, and the upcoming Asian Games will be no different.

India’s Kabaddi Legacy

India has long been the powerhouse of kabaddi in Asia, consistently taking the top spot in both the men’s and women’s categories at the Asian Games. The men’s team has won gold in all but one edition since kabaddi’s inclusion in 1990, while the women’s team has also been a dominant force, securing multiple gold medals in the past. This unmatched legacy makes India the team to beat in the 2025 edition.

Men’s Team Preparation

The men’s team, led by captain Pawan Sehrawat and bolstered by raiders like Naveen Kumar, has been training rigorously under the guidance of national coach Randhir Singh. The squad has been practicing in Patiala, where a specialized camp has been set up. The inclusion of young talents, alongside seasoned players, provides a strong mix of energy and experience. Notably, the team will look to Vishal Bhardwaj and Sunil Kumar to strengthen its defense. (kabaddi.org)

Women’s Team Focus

For the women’s team, which includes stars like Sakshi Kumari and Ritu Negi, the focus is on refining their attacking and defensive strategies. Having won silver at the 2018 Asian Games, the squad is determined to return with gold. The team has been training in Bhopal, where both speed and endurance drills have been intensified. Coach Hardeep Singhis keen on ensuring that the players are in peak form ahead of the competition. (indiankabaddi.org)

Infrastructure Upgrades for Kabaddi

In preparation for the Games, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) has also been upgrading training facilities and courts across key venues to match international standards. These improvements are part of a broader initiative to enhance India’s kabaddi infrastructure and provide players with world-class facilities. (sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in)

Looking Ahead

With a combination of experienced players and emerging talent, India’s kabaddi teams are set to compete at the highest level. The Asian Games 2025 is shaping up to be another chapter in India’s illustrious kabaddi history, and both teams are determined to add to their legacy of success.