Pakistan made a commanding start to their Asian Youth Games kabaddi campaign on Sunday, recording back-to-back victories over Bahrain and Thailand in their group-stage matches at Isa Sports City Hall.
In the opening fixture, Pakistan outclassed hosts Bahrain 87–21 in a completely one-sided encounter. The raiders and defenders combined brilliantly, racing to a 50–7 lead at halftime and never allowing Bahrain to recover.
According to official statistics, Pakistan earned 27 raid points, 8 bonus points, and 15 all-out points in the first half alone, while Bahrain managed just 7 raid points. The dominance continued after the break, with Pakistan adding 29 more raid points and 8 all-outs to seal a crushing victory.
Overall, Pakistan finished the match with 56 raid points, 8 bonus points, and 23 all-out points, while Bahrain ended on 21 points — comprising 12 raid and 3 bonus points. Impressively, Pakistan did not concede a single all-out, highlighting their control and defensive discipline.
Later in the day, Pakistan faced a tougher challenge against Thailand but prevailed 62–57 in a thrilling contest. Pakistan led 39–26 at halftime, driven by 31 raid points, 1 bonus, and 5 all-outs, while Thailand fought back through 18 raid points, 4 bonuses, and 4 super tackles.
Thailand mounted a strong comeback in the second half, outscoring Pakistan 31–23, but the early advantage proved decisive. Pakistan’s second-half performance included 19 raid points, 1 bonus, and 3 all-outs, whereas Thailand registered 17 raid points, 8 bonus points, and 3 all-outs.
By the end, Pakistan’s statistics showed 50 raid points, 2 bonus points, 8 all-out points, and 2 super tackles, compared to Thailand’s 35 raid points, 12 bonus points, 3 all-outs, and 6 super tackles.
Pakistan’s squad features Gull Sher, Hassan Ali, Muhammad Muqeeb, Usman Ali, Adeel Ahmad, and captain Syed Hamza Shah.
With two wins in as many matches, Pakistan are now set to face traditional powerhouses Iran and India today (Monday) in what promises to be crucial clashes for semifinal qualification.
