Indian Women's Kabaddi Team Prepares for 2026 Asian Games in Japan

Final Preparations for the Asian Games

The Indian women's Kabaddi squad has concluded its last training camp and is now en route to Japan for the upcoming 2026 Asian Games. This marks the end of a comprehensive training regimen organized by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India.

The team aims to defend the gold medal they secured in Hangzhou, where they narrowly defeated Chinese Taipei 26-25 in the final match. This upcoming event will be India's fourth gold in women's Kabaddi at the Asian Games, contributing to a total of 11 gold medals in the sport since its inception, as noted in a statement from the Pro Kabaddi League.

Neeta Dadwe, the head coach and a former captain of the national team, has been at the helm for over a decade, including during the 2014 Incheon and 2016 Asian Games. She elaborated on the structure of the training camps, stating, “This was our fourth and final camp. We previously held two camps, one lasting 15 days and another for a month, followed by a third camp. We began with 42 players and gradually narrowed it down, maintaining a balanced mix of experienced and younger athletes throughout.”

Regarding the team's mindset as they approach the tournament, she emphasized, “We want to avoid any pressure and focus on playing freely.”

Coach Mamtha Poojari detailed the phased training approach, which included a strength and conditioning program developed in collaboration with Mashal Sports, the organizers of the Pro Kabaddi League. “This is a process that spans six months to a year. The first camp focuses entirely on fitness, speed, endurance, weight training, and recovery. The second camp shifts towards skill development and match play, while the third camp is primarily mat training. In the final camp, we integrate everything, including analyzing our opponents' gameplay through video,” she explained.

For player Sonali Shingate, this Asian Games holds special significance as it marks her third attempt after missing the 2023 edition due to injury. “I participated in the 2018 Asian Games, and although I was selected for the 2023 squad, I suffered an injury just before the event and underwent surgery and rehabilitation. This is my third opportunity,” she shared.

“Every athlete dreams of competing in the Asian Games. Kabaddi is a sport where injuries can occur unexpectedly, so not everyone gets multiple chances,” she added.

On the team dynamics leading up to the tournament, Sonali noted a positive atmosphere. “The environment is excellent. The coaches have been very supportive of all players. The new members are being guided by the veterans. We all experienced similar nerves during our debuts, so the benefit of experience is being shared. We focus on teamwork rather than individual statistics,” she stated.

When discussing potential competitors, both coaches highlighted Iran and Chinese Taipei as key teams to watch. “Iran plays with relentless aggression throughout the match, regardless of the score. In contrast, Chinese Taipei is more composed and skill-oriented. We are training our players to adapt to both styles,” Mamtha remarked. Neeta added that Bangladesh, Japan, and South Korea also present formidable challenges, with the team having analyzed footage of all these opponents.

Both coaches recognized the emergence of new talent, particularly highlighting Nikita, who captained the last junior India U-18 team. “If she remains focused on her game and fitness, her future looks promising,” Mamtha noted.

Neeta concurred, stating, “She possesses strength and plays as a left winger. Not many are familiar with her yet, but she will be an asset for us.”

Both coaches believe that the establishment of a women's professional league is crucial for the sport's future. “Once the league is in place, every player will receive financial backing and scientific training, beyond just skill and fitness,” Sonali explained.

“Currently, there are very few professional teams for women outside of police services. A league would completely change that,” Mamtha added. “There are countless talented players nationwide who never get the opportunity. A league would provide them with a platform.”

Sonali concluded with a message for supporters: “Thank you to all the Indian fans for backing women's Kabaddi. Keep up the support—we will strive to give our best.”

Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team for the 2026 Asian Games: Pushpa Rana (captain), Ritu Negi, Sonali Shingate, Sanju Devi, Pooja Kajla, Ritu Sheoran, Jyoti Thakur, Pinki Roy, Manisha Kumari, Bhavna Thakur, Raj Rani, Nikita Kumari.