Asian Games: Indian women lose kabaddi final for first time, Iran clinch gold

Indian women's kabaddi team got outclassed by Iran in women's kabaddi final clash and settled for the silver medal on Friday at 2018 Asian Games.

The two-time defending champions were shocked 24-27 in a thrilling final.

In the first half, Payel and Sonali were effective with their raids while the defenders also contributed well as the Indians raced to a 7-3 lead.

The most dangerous looking Iranian was Azadeh Saidisiahbidi but she was forced out after a successful tackle.

Iran, however, continued their dominance and maintained their lead till the end.

In the concluding minutes, Sakshi Kumari earned two points with a successful raid to make it 24-25 but Iranians held their nerves to prevail.

The Iranian women emulated thus their male counterparts, who had shocked seven-time champions India in the semifinals yesterday.

India's sports minister took to Twitter to congratulate team India.