While India had impressed in earlier rounds, including a big semifinal win over Pakistan, they struggled in the final against iran, settling for silver as Iran reinforced its long-standing dominance in beach kabaddi.
BY PC Bureau
April 27, 2026: In a dominant performance on the sand, Iran defeated India 44–31 to win the men’s beach kabaddi gold at the Asian Beach Games, securing their third title in the discipline and reinforcing their supremacy in the format.
The final, held in Sanya, brought together two traditional kabaddi powerhouses in their first-ever title clash at the Beach Games. Iran, already champions in 2012 and 2014, controlled the contest from the outset, taking a commanding 23–11 lead at halftime. India struggled to break through Iran’s disciplined defence and efficient raiding, and despite some resistance in the second half, could not close the gap.
Iran’s victory was built on sharp coordination and tactical execution, with captain Mohammad Malak leading a well-drilled unit supported by players like Moslem Rashki and Mobin Nazari. Head coach Farhad Kamal Gharibi’s strategy—focused on adapting to the unique demands of the beach format—proved decisive.
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India, led by Brijendra Singh Choudhary, had entered the final in strong form after a convincing semifinal win over Pakistan. However, the team failed to replicate that intensity against a clinical Iranian side and had to settle for silver.
Both teams had enjoyed dominant runs en route to the final. Iran topped their group with wins over Pakistan and Bangladesh before defeating Sri Lanka in the semifinals. India also impressed in the group stage with big victories, including a commanding win over Chinese Taipei, before overcoming Pakistan to reach the final.
Iran men’s kabaddi team defeated India 44-31 at the final match of the 2026 Asian Beach Games on Monday.https://t.co/ahfVWFq8Dj
— Tehran Times (@TehranTimes79) April 27, 2026
Beach kabaddi, introduced at the Asian Beach Games in 2008, has seen Iran emerge as a consistent force. With this win in Sanya, they add to their gold medals from Haiyang (2012) and Phuket (2014), further cementing their status as a powerhouse in the sport.
The 2026 edition of the Games, being held in the coastal city of Sanya after a long gap, has highlighted the growing appeal of beach kabaddi—a faster, more physically demanding variant played on sand.
Despite the men’s loss, India had reason to celebrate as its women’s team successfully defended their title, defeating Sri Lanka to clinch gold once again.
The result sets up an intense rivalry between Iran and India in beach kabaddi, with both teams expected to remain strong contenders in upcoming international competitions.
