Pakistan Off to a Flying Start with Twin Kabaddi Wins at Asian Youth Games

Pakistan’s kabaddi team opened their Asian Youth Games campaign in stunning fashion on Sunday, registering two consecutive victories over Bahrain and Thailand to announce their arrival as serious contenders for the title. With these wins, the young Green Shirts have set up crucial matches against powerhouses Iran and India today in what promises to be an intense showdown at Isa Sports City, Bahrain.

In their first group-stage encounter, Pakistan dominated hosts Bahrain 87–21 in a completely one-sided match that showcased their attacking depth and defensive precision. From the very first raid, the team looked sharp and focused, racing to a commanding 50–7 lead by halftime.

According to official match statistics, Pakistan earned 27 raid points, 8 bonus points, and 15 all-out points in the first half alone, leaving Bahrain struggling to keep pace with just 7 raid points. After the break, Pakistan’s consistency continued as they piled on 29 more raid points and 8 additional all-out points. Bahrain could only manage scattered responses, unable to break through Pakistan’s defensive wall.

By the end of the match, Pakistan’s final tally stood at 56 raid points, 8 bonus points, and 23 all-out points, while Bahrain finished with 12 raid points and 3 bonuses for a total of 21. Pakistan did not concede a single all-out throughout the game, underlining their superior strategy, fitness, and teamwork.

Later in the evening, Pakistan faced a sterner test against Thailand but emerged victorious in a thrilling 62–57 contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Pakistan dominated the early stages, taking a 39–26 lead at halftime with 31 raid points, 1 bonus, and 5 all-outs. Thailand, however, refused to back down and mounted a strong second-half comeback, closing the gap with impressive raids and tactical super tackles.

Thailand outscored Pakistan 31–23 in the second half, but Pakistan’s early advantage and composure under pressure ensured they maintained control until the final whistle. In total, Pakistan recorded 50 raid points, 2 bonuses, 8 all-outs, and 2 super tackles, while Thailand finished with 35 raid points, 12 bonuses, 3 all-outs, and 6 super tackles.

The standout performers for Pakistan included captain Syed Hamza Shah, who led from the front with decisive raids, and defenders Hassan Ali and Adeel Ahmad, who displayed remarkable agility and anticipation. The team also featured Gull Sher, Muhammad Muqeeb, and Usman Ali, all of whom contributed significantly to both attack and defense.

With two victories in as many matches, Pakistan have established early momentum and confidence ahead of their upcoming clashes against traditional giants Iran and India. Both teams boast rich kabaddi legacies and are considered among the toughest opponents in Asia.

A win against either Iran or India would almost certainly secure Pakistan a place in the knockout rounds, while also serving as a statement of intent from a side eager to reclaim Pakistan’s dominance in youth kabaddi.

Pakistan’s emphatic start has energized fans back home, with many hailing the team’s blend of experience, youth, and discipline. Their tactical balance — mixing aggressive raiding with tight defensive formations — suggests the team is peaking at the right time in the tournament.

As the Asian Youth Games continue, all eyes will now be on how Pakistan handle the challenge of back-to-back games against the continent’s strongest teams. If their early performances are any indication, Pakistan’s young kabaddi stars are ready to carry forward the country’s proud sporting tradition with grit and glory.