It was a final that had everything power-packed raids, fierce tackles, emotional flare-ups, and even moments of sheer chaos. But when the dust settled, it was India’s U18 boys who emerged victorious, defeating Iran 35–32 to capture the Kabaddi gold medal at the Asian Youth Games 2025.
The win completed a historic double for Indian Kabaddi, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams clinching gold at the Games. For a sport deeply rooted in Indian soil, this triumph was a reaffirmation of the nation’s unmatched dominance on the mat.
From the opening whistle, both teams showcased defensive steel and tactical aggression. India, led by captain Ishant, started brightly, forcing early do-or-die situations on Iran and converting them through clever raiding rotations. But as the game progressed, tempers flared. Midway through the second half, controversy erupted when Iran refused to restart play, accusing Ishant of using oily substances on his legs to avoid tackles an allegation that sparked tension across the court. The referees, after a prolonged discussion, dismissed the claims, leading to loud cheers from a crowd overwhelmingly in favor of the home side.
The stoppage seemed to ignite India further. Their defenders notably the right corner and cover combination produced back-to-back tackles to regain momentum. Iran, however, refused to back down, relying on a flurry of super tackles and quick bonus points to close the gap to just two points with minutes remaining.
Referral Confusion and Nerve-Shredding Finish
In one of the defining moments, a late referral call by Iran caused further chaos. The decision, regarding whether an Indian raider had crossed the baulk line before contact, went India’s way after a lengthy review. Iran’s bench protested vehemently, with coaches exchanging words on the sideline, forcing another temporary delay.
But through it all, the young Indian side held their composure. Every tackle, every raid was executed with precision under immense pressure. Ishant, who had been at the center of the controversy, led by example scoring vital raid points and organizing the defense in the dying seconds to seal a hard-fought 35–32 victory.
As the final whistle blew, the Indoor Arena erupted. The Indian boys rushed onto the mat in celebration, embracing their coaches and waving the tricolour with pride.
From Dominance to Drama: India’s Journey to Gold
India’s march to the final had been emphatic. In the group stage, they crushed Bangladesh (83–19), Sri Lanka (89–16), Pakistan (81–26), and Thailand (86–30), displaying depth and flair across all departments. Even their earlier 46–29 win over Iran in the group phase had hinted at their superiority. But finals are rarely straightforward and this one proved no exception. While India’s earlier matches were marked by control and comfort, this final demanded nerve, resilience, and the ability to handle controversy. And the young squad delivered on all counts.
With the girls’ team having earlier dismantled Iran 75–21 in a one-sided final, India’s twin gold medals underscore their unmatched stature in Asian Kabaddi. For a generation of under-18 athletes, this victory was more than just a medal it was a statement that India continues to be the heartbeat of the sport.
Kabaddi, which has long been dominated by India on the senior stage, now finds fresh young ambassadors who have shown maturity beyond their years. Their performances throughout the tournament showcased not just skill, but also tactical understanding and mental toughness traits that bode well for the future of Indian Kabaddi.
The image of the young team celebrating under the Indian flag will stand as one of the defining visuals of the 2025 Asian Youth Games. It symbolized unity, courage, and the never-say-die spirit that defines India in Kabaddi.
As the crowd chanted “India, India,” there was little doubt this was more than just a gold medal. It was a reminder of India’s enduring supremacy in the sport they gave to the world.
Final Score: 🇮🇳 India 35–32 Iran 🇮🇷
Result: India win Gold in Boys’ Kabaddi at the Asian Youth Games 2025
Double Gold for India! 🥇🇮🇳
— Boys defeat Iran 35–32 in a thriller
— Girls crush Iran 75–21 in the final
