Pakistan clinched the silver medal at the inaugural World Beach Kabaddi Championship held in Iran, finishing as runners-up after a hard-fought final against the host nation.
In an exhilarating match, Iran triumphed over Pakistan with a score of 45-41, securing victory by a narrow six-point margin.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan showcased their skills in the semi-finals, decisively defeating Iraq with a commanding score of 58-21. This strong performance paved the way for their appearance in the final, demonstrating the team’s preparation and determination throughout the tournament.
The championship saw participation from various countries, including Melli, Nepal, Turkmenistan, Denmark, Palestine, Kenya, Germany, and Lebanon, highlighting the international appeal of the sport. The diverse competition added to the excitement of the event, showcasing the growing popularity of kabaddi on the beach.
In preparation for the championship, the Pakistani national team underwent rigorous training at the Pakistan Sports Complex. Muhammad Sarwar Rana, Secretary General of the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation, reported that selected players participated in a focused training camp from September 25 to 30. This dedicated preparation was crucial in honing their skills and strategy for the high-stakes matches ahead.
The team’s journey to the finals has been a testament to their hard work and resilience. While they fell short in the final, their silver medal achievement marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s kabaddi history and sets a promising foundation for future competitions.
With this experience, the players are likely to build upon their success and aim for gold in upcoming tournaments.