Dubai Masters Final: India emerge victorious over Iran!

Road to Finals for India and Iran

Iran defeated Argentina and South Korea in their group and dominated Pakistan in the semi-final match. Pakistan did try to make a comeback in the second half but Iran dominated well. At no point of the time did any teams that faced Iran looked better.

India on the other side had easy wins against Pakistan and Kenya in group stages and then defeated South Korea quite convincingly to reach the final although there were some moments in the first half which showed the Korean progress over the years, Ajay Thakur and his men made sure of another glorious final for Team India.

Match Report

India looked in control from the first whistle after Ajay Thakur scored points and were leading 4-0 after first few minutes. India scored points easily with Ajay and Monu effectively raiding and defense clicking. Iran tried a comeback scoring 4 continuous points but were trailing by 7 points at the half time.

Half time scores India 18- 11 Iran.

Second half went from bad to worse for Iran as they lost their star player Hadi Tajik to injury and India upped the ante and took a good lead of 10 points. Rohit Kumar was brought on as a substitute in the second half and India at one point lead by 15 points due to exceptional defending by Surjeet and a super tackle initiated by Mohit Chillar. Ajay Thakur was one point shy from a super 10 as he scored 9 raid points and Monu ably supported him. In the last few minutes Iran scored some points but that was too little too late as India defeated Iran by 18 points, a massive margin for a final.

India 44-26 Iran and India keep their winning streak alive by winning the inaugural Dubai Masters Kabaddi Tournament. All eyes on Captain Ajay Thakur as he lifts the trophy and adds yet another trophy to the ever growing trophy cabinet. 

Indian team are visibly elated and are looking all set for the Asian games. Iran although defeated have showed their young talents and will be hoping for a better performance in the Asian games.