LAHORE: Arch-rivals Pakistan and India on Saturday night qualified for the Kabaddi World Cup (indigenous style) final after winning their respective semi-finals here at the Punjab Stadium.

While Pakistan overwhelmed Iran 52-30 after taking a 29-17 lead in the first half, India struggled to overcome Australia 42-32 in the other last-four match held under floodlights.

The Pakistan players showed more stamina and speed in the second half as they dropped just 13 points while adding 23 points to complete a big-margin victory. Iran failed to match the speed of Pakistan players in riding as well as in defence.

From Pakistan Waqas Butt was declared the best rider while Sajjad Gujjar was adjudged as the best defender.

India led the first half 28-14 and also dominated the second half to keep the sway throughout the proceedings. Ravi Parkash of India was declared the best rider while another Indian Amritpal Singh was adjudged as best defender.

The final of the event will be played on Sunday at 8.00pm.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2020