The power and prowess of raider Mizanur Rahman proved too much for the South Korea kabaddi team, who made their debut in Bangladesh with a 67-22 defeat at the hands of the indomitable hosts in the opening match of the Bangabandhu Cup 2024 at Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium in Mirpur Sunday.
Bangladesh, champions of all three previous editions of the competition, demonstrated why they are once again considered favorites, even against the World Cup semi-finalists making their first appearance.
The tournament, organized by Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation, was introduced after the men in red and green lost to South Korea at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia.
The team seem to have made significant progress following successive Bangabandhu Cup campaigns.
It was Mizan who stole the show with maximum 21 points.
His pierce raids helped the home side to force the visitors for all-out (lonas) on five occasions.
He also played notable role in defence.
Experienced raider Arduzzaman Munshi, who was given back the captaincy from Tuhin Tarafder, claimed 10 points and led the side to stay organized and disciplined throughout the game.
After the first half ended 24-11, the hosts looked more aggressive under the guidance of veteran coach Abdul Jalil to produce three more lonas against the two-time World Cup semi-finalists.
Mizan looked determined to maintain the momentum after the comfortable win.
After receiving the best player’s award, the raider said at the post-match presentation: “We want to keep the winning spree and clinch the title for the fourth time.”
Bangladesh will face Malaysia Monday before taking on Indonesia Wednesday, Poland Thursday, and Nepal Friday in the rest of Group A fixtures.
Iraq, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Kenya along with debutants Uganda and Japan make up Group B as the top two sides from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.
