Historic Achievement! Bangladesh Women Secure First-Ever Kabaddi World Cup Medal

The Mirpur Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium erupted in celebration today as Bangladesh’s women’s kabaddi team scripted history. The moment the final whistle sounded, the players wrapped themselves in the red-and-green flag and paraded around the court, acknowledging the roaring support from the gallery. Their joyous lap wasn’t just about a win—it marked Bangladesh’s first-ever guaranteed medal at the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup.

Bangladesh defeated Thailand 40–31 in a gripping encounter to confirm their place in the semi-finals. Under international kabaddi regulations, all semi-finalists earn at least a bronze medal, making today’s victory a monumental moment for the squad.

Intense First Half and a Sudden Injury Twist

The first half proved competitive, with Bangladesh showing composure and strong defensive organisation. But midway through the half, star raider Shraboni Mallick picked up an injury, causing tension among home supporters. Thankfully, she recovered quickly and returned to the court.

Just before the interval, Shraboni produced a brilliant two-point raid, giving Bangladesh a 14–12 lead.

 Shraboni’s Heroic Comeback in the Second Half

If the first half was about balance, the second half was about Bangladesh’s dominance. Shraboni, seemingly unfazed by her earlier injury, shifted into top gear. Her successive raids broke through the Thai defence repeatedly, widening the margin point by point.

Thailand attempted a late comeback, but the hosts remained sharp in both attack and defence, maintaining full control until the match ended 40–31.

 Iran Join Bangladesh in the Semi-Finals

Earlier in the day, Iran—runners-up in the previous edition—secured their semi-final spot with a commanding 39–11 victory over Nepal.
India, meanwhile, dominated their group, defeating Uganda 51–16 to reach the semis as group champions.

 Bangladesh’s Journey So Far

Bangladesh opened their campaign with a confident win over Uganda and followed it with another victory against Germany. Their only group-stage setback came against India. But the all-important clash against Thailand saw them rise to the occasion brilliantly.

 A New Chapter in Women’s Kabaddi

This year marks only the second edition of the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup; the first was held in 2012, when India defeated Iran to lift the title. Bangladesh were eliminated in the quarter-finals that year.
This time, however, the story is very different—Bangladesh have reached the semi-finals and guaranteed their first medal on this stage.

Today’s achievement is not just a sporting milestone; it is a defining moment for women’s kabaddi in Bangladesh, inspiring a new generation of athletes.

 Match Results (Table)