Bangladesh’s women’s kabaddi team made history by securing the nation’s first-ever medal at the Asian Youth Games, defeating Sri Lanka 47–40 in Bahrain. The victory ensured a bronze medal for Bangladesh in the third edition of the Games, marking a major milestone as the country had never before won a medal in any discipline at the continental youth event.
The match, held at Isa Sports City, was fiercely contested from start to finish. Bangladesh dominated the first half 25–18, building a crucial seven-point lead. Although Sri Lanka fought back strongly after the break, both teams scored 22 points each in the second half, allowing Bangladesh to hold firm for a 47–40 triumph.
The win secured Bangladesh’s place among the top four of the five-team competition, where the fourth-placed side was guaranteed a bronze. The players and officials celebrated joyfully after the final whistle, recognising the historic nature of their achievement.
Earlier in the tournament, Bangladesh had suffered defeats to India (46–18), Iran (33–19) and Thailand (38–30). India and Iran, the top two finishers in the round-robin stage, will now contest the gold-medal match.
In the boys’ kabaddi competition, seven teams are participating. The Bangladeshi boys’ team have already recorded wins over Sri Lanka and Iran and are scheduled to face Thailand later tonight (Bangladesh time), with a strong chance of finishing among the top four.
The third edition of the Asian Youth Games, returning after more than a decade, will be officially inaugurated tomorrow. Bangladesh are competing in 13 out of 25 disciplines at this year’s Games.
