Asian Games 2018: Analysis of the Iranian Kabaddi Team

Team Iran ended their impressive season run as silver medal holders in Dubai Kabaddi Masters 2018.
Team Iran ended their impressive season run as silver medal holders in Dubai Kabaddi Masters 2018

All Rounders

From left to right: Amir Hossein Maleki, Mohammad Nabibaksh, Hamid Mizraei Nadar and Mohammad Ghorbani.
From left to right: Amir Hossein Maleki, Mohammad Nabibaksh, Hamid
Mizraei
Nadar and Mohammad Ghorbani.

Iran's slightly visible gap in the raiding unit will be fulfilled by the all-rounders from which they have plenty to choose from.

Given the job to wear the captain's hat, Amir Hossein did a fantastic job as a leader in the left corner in the Dubai Kabaddi Masters 2018.

We have seen how he loved to throw himself into the do or die tough situations and also having an innovative leadership approach.

He might as well be used in as a substitution if required, or also in the Left In position if the team opts to do so. However, benching him would definitely be a tough call to make for Iran.

Mohammad Nabibaksh was indeed the spotlight stealer. Whether it be scoring a 3 pointer in the very first raid versus Pakistan or dashing Ajay Thakur out of the court versus India, Nabibaksh has got all the moves an all-rounder needs to have.

He measures the opposition defence really well and knows how to unsettle the defenders with his shuffling ability from both left and right. Also, his dives and knee holds are pinpoint, Nabibaksh will definitely be an important player in the lineup.

Hamid Mizraei Nadar is a notable right cover to the team who has a strong command over body tackles whereas Mohammad Ghorbani can also be lethal to the mix of raid and defence play. It will be a tough call to make for the coaching team considering how well they've performed in the past and how they bring stability to the playing 7.

Some new faces are expected to arrive at the scene when team Iran will also receive the services from Meisam Abbasi and Mohammad Reza Shadloo.

The Iranians have always proven their dominance in the sport of Kabaddi since their arrival in 2004. With over 2 silver medals in their grasp, they'll look to defeat big match players and possibly gain their first gold medal. It is obvious they are coming to retreat, the fans should expect high from Iranian Kabaddi team in the upcoming Jakarta Asian Games.

Quick Links

App download animated image Get the free App now