Mumbai, Dec 12 (NationPress) The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) honored the Indian women’s kabaddi team on Friday following their victorious return from Dhaka, Bangladesh, where they secured the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup on November 24. India triumphed over Chinese Taipei with a score of 35–28 in the final, marking their second consecutive World Cup title and reinforcing their supremacy in the sport.

Throughout the tournament, India remained unbeaten, winning all their group matches before defeating Iran 33–21 in the semi-finals. Chinese Taipei, also undefeated in their group, reached the final after overcoming the host nation, Bangladesh, with a score of 25–18.

PKL Chairman and Mashal Sports Business Head, Anupam Goswami, emphasized the long-term vision for women’s kabaddi, stating, “The federation’s commitment — particularly in reviving the Women’s World Cup after a 12-year gap — signifies that the sport is advancing in the right direction. This World Cup trophy represents more than just a win; it is a collective responsibility as we look forward.”

“When we consider establishing a Women’s Kabaddi League, hastiness is not the solution. We need to construct it properly — with players who are genuinely interested, a model that makes commercial sense, and an infrastructure that can sustain women’s kabaddi in the long term,” he continued.

Head coach V. Tejeswini Bai discussed the team’s growth and preparation, stating, “This is the third time I’ve participated in a coaching team that has earned a medal, and each occasion feels exceptionally special. I take pride not just in the outcome, but in the journey this group has undertaken… What you witness in this victory is the culmination of months of disciplined training.”

Team captain Ritu Negi spoke about the squad’s solidarity and determination, expressing, “In the final match, I was limited due to my injury, which was certainly disheartening. However, our team is greater than any individual player. The crucial aspect is that our teammates rose to the occasion and executed exactly what was required. Winning the World Cup and receiving recognition from across the nation — including from the Honourable Prime Minister — makes us feel that our efforts truly represent India.”

On the international scene, Vibhor Vineet Jain, president of the AKFI, highlighted the sport’s development, stating, “Kabaddi has transcended the subcontinent. Countries like Chinese Taipei and Iran have altered the competitive landscape. This diversity enriches the sport, and we are working at every level to ensure kabaddi achieves its highest global heights.”