India’s Under-18 boys’ and girls’ kabaddi teams stamped their authority at the Asian Youth Games 2025 in Bahrain by clinching gold medals while remaining undefeated in the competition. The girls’ team swept aside Iran with a commanding 75-21 victory in the final, the largest winning margin at the Youth Games kabaddi finals since 2013.
Throughout the tournament, the girls amassed 312 points while conceding just 89 over five matches. Standout raider Neha Patel scored 28 points in the final alone, while defender Riya Singh marshalled a steadfast defence. The boys’ final was a closer affair, with India edging out Iran 35-32 in a tense finish.
Their group stage run was equally impressive, including dominant wins against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, hosts Bahrain, and Thailand, underscoring their consistent strength on the mat. These performances reinforce India’s reputation as Asia’s foremost youth kabaddi power.
Tournament Context and Key Moments
Kabaddi made its debut at the 2025 Asian Youth Games, held at Isa Sports City in Riffa between October 19 and 23. Seven teams competed in round-robin formats leading to finals. India topped both boys’ and girls’ groups, showcasing tactical acumen and skill across matches.
The tournament’s intensity was heightened by long-standing regional rivalries, most notably against Iran and Pakistan. A notable moment was Indian boys’ captain Ishant Rathee’s refusal to shake hands with the Pakistani captain before their match, a symbolic reflection of ongoing geopolitical strains. Despite such tensions, all teams upheld the competitive spirit on the field.
India’s success in kabaddi contributed to the country’s broader medal tally at the Games, including medals in taekwondo and athletics, where young athletes like Ranjana Yadav and Jasmine Kaur brought home medals, further reflecting India’s emerging sporting talent.
Officials’ Praise and National Pride
Officials and coaches lauded the performances of both Indian teams, highlighting the players’ discipline, teamwork, and resilience. The head coach expressed pride in the young athletes for demonstrating both skill and sportsmanship under pressure, elevating India’s stature in the continental youth sports arena.
The gold medals contributed substantially to India’s growing medal count at the Games, marking a triumphant chapter in the development of youth sports. Commentary from sports officials emphasized that such success is a result of sustained training and investment in grassroots kabaddi programs, which are beginning to bear fruit on international stages.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
While India’s double gold triumph exemplifies outstanding athletic achievement, moments highlighting regional divides during the Games remind us of sports’ dual potential, to unify and to mirror societal rifts. Sports hold extraordinary power as a platform for dialogue, understanding, and peace, transcending political differences to build camaraderie and respect.
In light of these games, The Logical Indian advocates strengthening efforts to foster sporting environments that emphasise empathy, kind rivalry, and shared humanity, encouraging youth and nations alike to come together as ambassadors of peace.
🇮🇳 Boys' Kabaddi Triumph
— India in Bahrain (@IndiaInBahrain) October 23, 2025
India’s boys kabaddi team edged past Iran 35–32 to win 🥇 at #AsianYouthGames Bahrain 2025.
Grit, glory, and gold for India 🇮🇳! @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy @YASMinistry pic.twitter.com/qTsWV6Zrli
What a showdown in Boys’ Kabaddi!
— Olympic Council of Asia (@AsianGamesOCA) October 24, 2025
Iran pushed every point with determination, but India held firm till the last whistle to claim gold in Boys’ Kabaddi at the 3rd Asian Youth Games, Bahrain 2025.🇧🇭 pic.twitter.com/PIz4PWajYK
