Nepal’s women’s kabaddi team secured a 21-17 victory over Bangladesh in the fourth match of their five-game series on Wednesday, sealing the series 3-1 with a game to spare.
After Bangladesh had claimed the third encounter to make it 2-1, the visitors had hoped to level the series. However, the hosts showcased their quality and experience in front of a lively crowd in Kathmandu, ensuring the series would not go down to a decider.
Bangladesh started brightly, picking up the opening three points. Despite trailing 9-10 at the break, they mounted a strong fightback, drawing level at 14-14 midway through the second half. But Nepal’s composure under pressure proved decisive as they pulled clear to clinch the win.
The result sparked controversy, with Bangladesh coach Shahnaz Parvin Maleka attributing the loss to questionable officiating.
“Our girls played well from the outset, collecting points through raids and bonus opportunities,” she claimed. “But the referee denied us a clear bonus point and, to our surprise, ended the match two minutes early, seemingly in favour of the home team.”
Despite the protest, Nepal’s players celebrated a well-earned series triumph, with one match still to be played.