Kabaddi loss to South Korea is a warning bell for India, says Anup Kumar

Anup Kumar

In a major upset, seven-time gold medallist India suffered their first ever defeat in 28 years of the Asian Games when the Ajay Thakur-led side lost to 2014 Incheon Games bronze medallist, South Korea in the men's kabaddi Group A game at Jakarta, Indonesia yesterday. The 2016 World Cup-winning India captain was shocked to hear about India's loss and advised the team to consider the result as a warning bell.

"India should play tight henceforth. If we are slightly loose, then our problems will keep on increasing. Agar aisa kuch hua, to wo sharam ke layak ho ga Hindustan ke liye [If we keep losing matches like this, it will be shame for India]. Our players should be serious. It's good they suffered such a set back at the start. They should consider this result as a warning bell. They should up their performance, rectify their mistakes and move forward," Anup told mid-day over the phone from Gurgaon.

Anup, 34, who was part of the Indian kabaddi team that won gold at the Guangzhou and Incheon Games, added: "We need to learn from this loss as quickly as possible because there are tougher opponents who we will be facing. Iran, who have entered the tournament with sound preparation, will be eagerly awaiting to face India."

India will lock horns in their final Group A game with Thailand today and Anup reckoned that the team should gain a sizeable lead during the clash. "Ajay Thakur and his team must ensure they gain a lead during the initial stages of the match. This will help to keep the opponents under pressure throughout the game. There should be a minimum lead of five points. If we fail to take such a lead, then we will constantly be under pressure throughout the game," he said.

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