Seven days of pulsating action in the inaugural Junior World Kabaddi Championship concluded with the host nation Iran lifting the esteemed trophy, courtesy of some clinical performances in the final against Kenya. Iran were clearly the dominant side, registering an emphatic 42-22 victory over the African nation.

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The Iranian team was led by their charismatic captain Amir Hossein Bastami who had been a formidable force in attack and started the tournament with an impressive show in the encounter against Thailand.

Iran had convincingly won all their group games, posting against Malaysia, Thailand and Turkmenistan scoring a total of 220 points in the process. Out of the 13 teams participating in the competition, Kenya, Pakistan, Iran and Bangladesh made it to the semi-finals, hence confirming the dominance of Asian nations in the sport of Kabaddi.

Iran and Kenya proved to be the final two contenders and locked horns to ascertain the champions of the first Junior World Kabaddi Championship. On the day of the final, Iran’s captain Amir was utterly ruthless as his majestic raiding skills were incomprehensible for the Kenyans. Due to Amir’s heroic efforts, Iran ended the first half 22-8.

The Kenyans displayed a few signs of revival in the second half, but the lead was beyond their reach. The African heavyweights finally bowed out as Iran emerged triumphant and lifted the coveted prize. While Kenya finished as runners up, Pakistan managed to win a Bronze medal after a victory over Bangladesh.

The Iranians not only proved their mettle by remaining undefeated throughout the entire competition and they also showcased their supremacy once again in the sport of Kabaddi. The future of Kabaddi looks bright in Iran as the country has been producing world class players like Fazel Atrachali, who has made his way into the worldwide spectrum of the game. 

Feature image courtesy: Twitter/ Iran Consolato Milano