Mumbai, Dec 12 – The PKL honored the Indian women’s kabaddi squad on Friday after they returned triumphant from Dhaka, Bangladesh, where they won the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup on November 24. In the final, India beat Chinese Taipei 35‑28, clinching their second straight title and solidifying their hold on the sport.
They were undefeated all tournament, sweeping their group games, then defeating Iran 33‑21 in the semi‑final. Chinese Taipei, also unbeaten in their pool, reached the final after edging hosts Bangladesh 25‑18.
PKL chairman and Mashal Sports chief Anupam Goswami stressed a long‑term strategy for women’s kabaddi: “The federation’s commitment – especially in bringing back the Women’s World Cup after 12 years – shows the sport is moving firmly in the right direction. This World Cup trophy is more than a win; it is a shared responsibility for all of us as we look ahead.” He added that rushing a Women’s Kabaddi League isn’t the solution; it must be built properly with players passionate about it, a commercially viable model, and a durable structure for the sport’s future.
Head coach V. Tejeswini Bai highlighted the team’s growth and preparation: “This is the third medal‑winning coaching role I’ve been part of, and each one feels incredibly special. I’m proud not just of the result but of the journey this group has taken… What you see here is the outcome of months of disciplined practice.”
Captain Ritu Negi spoke on unity and determination, saying, “I wasn’t able to play much in the last match due to injury, which was frustrating. But our team is bigger than any single player. What matters is that our players stepped up and executed exactly what was needed. Winning the World Cup and seeing the response from across the country – even from the Honourable Prime Minister – makes us feel that our hard work truly represents India.”
On the international front, AKFI president Vibhor Vineet Jain noted kabaddi’s global evolution: “Kabaddi is no longer limited to the subcontinent. Nations like Chinese Taipei and Iran have transformed the competitive landscape. This diversity enriches the sport, and we’re working at every level to ensure kabaddi reaches its highest global pinnacles.”
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