Iranian Women’s Kabaddi Team Finds Sanctuary in India Amidst Geopolitical Tensions, Eyes Asian Games Gold
SONIPAT, INDIA – In a hushed and highly discreet operation, the formidable Iranian women’s kabaddi team has sought refuge and intensive training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Sonipat, Haryana, as they meticulously prepare for the upcoming Asian Games. The 15-member squad, accompanied by their coach, arrived in India on August 13th and has since maintained a low profile, emphasizing their singular focus on championship readiness.
Their decision to train in India underscores a critical period for the team, whose preparations were severely disrupted by the outbreak of the US-Iran war. This geopolitical instability not only cost them nearly three months of crucial training but also cast a shadow of anxiety over the players, many of whom faced immense concern for the safety and whereabouts of their families back home.
"There were weeks when some players did not know where their families were or whether they were safe," a source close to the team revealed. "Training continued, but so did the anxiety."
Despite these challenging circumstances, the team’s determination to compete at the highest level remains unwavering. India has emerged as a crucial "safe harbour" for their aspirations. The Iranian contingent secured necessary permissions from the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) to facilitate their travel and training arrangements, ensuring a seamless transition for their pre-Games preparations.
The Iranian women’s kabaddi team is a proven force on the Asian stage. They famously clinched the gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games, a feat mirrored by their male counterparts. More recently, in 2023, the women’s team secured a bronze medal, while the men brought home silver, demonstrating their consistent performance and competitive edge.
Currently, the team is engaged in a rigorous training regimen, conducting two sessions daily at the SAI centre. These sessions include practice matches against local Indian players, providing invaluable competitive exposure that is vital for honing their skills and strategies. For the Indian players, this unique opportunity to test their mettle against an internationally recognized team has been met with considerable enthusiasm.
SAI coach Naveen noted the significant excitement generated among the local players by the presence of the Iranian team. Beyond the SAI centre, the Iranian squad also extended their training to the Khokhar Academy in Sonipat. Rajveer Khokhar, the academy’s coach, expressed that the sessions proved "extremely beneficial" for his players, highlighting the mutual benefits of this cross-cultural sports exchange.
As the Iranian women’s kabaddi team continues their intensive training in Sonipat, they embody resilience and an unwavering commitment to their sport. Their quiet dedication, away from the public eye, signifies a profound focus on their goal: to once again stand atop the podium at the Asian Games, a testament to their spirit amidst adversity.
