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India Clinches Women’s Kabaddi World Cup Title
India Retains Women’s Kabaddi World Cup Title with Gritty Victory Over Chinese Taipei
DHAKA — The Indian women’s kabaddi team reasserted its global dominance on Monday, clinching the 2025 Women’s Kabaddi World Cup title with a hard-fought 35–28 victory over Chinese Taipei. In a thrilling final held at the Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh, the defending champions held their nerve to secure their second consecutive world title, ending a 13-year wait for the tournament's return.
A Battle of Nerves
While India entered the final as favorites, Chinese Taipei proved to be a formidable adversary. The match began with high intensity, as both sides traded points early on. India’s defense, led by captain Ritu Negi, initially struggled to contain Taipei’s swift raiders but soon found its rhythm.
At halftime, India held a slender lead, thanks to crucial raids by vice-captain Pushpa Rana and rising star Sanju Devi. The second half saw a tactical shift, with Indian raiders adopting a more aggressive approach while the defense tightened its formation. Despite a spirited comeback attempt by Chinese Taipei in the dying minutes, India maintained their composure, closing out the match with a seven-point margin.
Star Performers
The victory was built on a collective team effort, but individual brilliance shone through at critical moments:
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Sanju Devi: The raider from Chhattisgarh was the standout performer, earning the Player of the Tournament award. Her decisive raids in the second half kept the scoreboard ticking when the pressure was highest.
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Ritu Negi: The veteran captain anchored the defense, executing key tackles that neutralized Taipei’s most dangerous attackers.
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Pushpa Rana: As vice-captain, Rana provided stability and quick points, ensuring India never lost the lead completely.
The Road to Glory
India’s campaign in Dhaka was nothing short of dominant. The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, topping their group with convincing wins.
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Semi-Final: They stormed into the final after a commanding 33–21 victory over arch-rivals Iran.
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Group Stage: The team displayed superior technique and fitness, outclassing opponents like Thailand and Kenya.
Chinese Taipei, who had defeated hosts Bangladesh 25–18 in the other semi-final, were the surprise package of the tournament, showcasing the rapid growth of kabaddi outside its traditional South Asian stronghold.
A Historic Triumph
- This victory holds special significance as it marks India’s second World Cup title, the first coming in the inaugural edition held in Patna in 2012. The 2025 edition was also historic for being the first Women’s Kabaddi World Cup hosted outside India.
- The win triggered celebrations back home, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the tributes. "Our daughters have made the country proud once again," he posted on social media, praising the team's grit and technical prowess.
- For the players, many of whom have waited over a decade for another shot at the World Cup, the win in Dhaka is a testament to their resilience and the enduring legacy of Indian kabaddi.
Summary of the Final
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Category
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Details
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Winner
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India (2nd Title)
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Runner-up
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Chinese Taipei
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Final Score
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35 – 28
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Venue
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Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium, Dhaka
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Player of the Tournament
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Sanju Devi (India)
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Winning Captain
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Ritu Negi
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