With only under two weeks to go for the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup, all teams have been preparing themselves for the big fight in India which starts from 7th October, 2016 at The Arena by TransStadia in Ahmedabad, India. However, there is one team that has always been giving India a fight at all major international competitions – Iran.
Iran’s skipper, Meraj Sheykh, who has played in India in the last three editions of the Pro Kabaddi League, has said that his side can now match India’s skills and performances on the mat, and is sure that his team will be able to turn the tides on the Indian team at the World Cup.
Speaking to the Times of India ahead of Iran’s arrival to the country for the competition, Meraj Sheykh said, “I am 100 percent sure about that. We have always been a formidable side and we've improved more from the last time we played India. We have more young players playing for us now and they have the experience of playing in India.”
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The Iranian has become a popular figure in India due to his exploits in the Pro Kabaddi League, and he credits the experience he has received in India for improvement in his game. Meraj said, “It has been good for us because after being part of the kabaddi scene, we have kind of understood the tactics and techniques used by our Indian counterparts.”
Iran has been unable to overcome the Indian side in the finals of the last two Kabaddi World Cup as they lost 27-55 in 2004 and 19-29 in 2007, in what turned out to be one-sided affairs both the times. However, it seems like the Iranians will be making plans to counter the Indian team this time around.
Meraj added, “We are being made to watch a lot of match clips. Coaches usually analyse players from other countries and base their technique accordingly.” He said that his team have been analysing India’s play ahead of the World Cup and will be making plans to beat the hosts in their own backyard.
Iran have been placed in Pool B with the likes of USA, Poland, Kenya, Thailand and Japan where they will be the favourites to qualify, with a 100% record and will be expected to face India in the latter stages of the tournament. Iran will start their campaign on 7th October, 2016 against the United States of America.
