India Women and Uganda Women Set Up Blockbuster Title Clash at Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship

Ahmedabad, Oct 30: Day Eight of the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 witnessed high-octane semi-final action at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, setting up a blockbuster title clash between India Women and Uganda Women.

Uganda Women booked their spot in the final after edging past Kenya Women 23-21 in a nail-biting thriller that went down to the final minute. Uganda held a 12-9 lead at half-time and extended it to 18-12 with seven minutes remaining. However, Kenya mounted a spirited fightback, outscoring their opponents 9-5 in the closing stages, spearheaded by Lavenda Odhiambo's stellar 16-point performance. Despite level raid points, Uganda's first-half All-Out and a flawless five-for-five record in do-or-die raids sealed their narrow victory, led by eight points each from Nakayongo Shirat and impact player Nalwoga Nahia.

Meanwhile, host nation India Women delivered a commanding performance, thrashing Sri Lanka Women 39-14 after establishing a dominant 24-7 lead by halftime. Sakshi starred for the Indian side with 11 points, combining eight raid points and three tackle points, while captain Nidhi Sharma contributed 10 points. Ritu anchored a formidable defensive display with four tackle points as India inflicted three All-Outs on Sri Lanka, whose resistance was led by Diluxshana's six points.

Reflecting on reaching the final, India captain Nidhi Sharma expressed excitement and emphasized the need for tactical readiness. "We have played Uganda before, but they will change their strategy because it's the second time we're facing them, so it will be a good match," she stated.

The two finalists will lock horns once again on October 31 at 7:30 PM IST, marking a highly anticipated rematch of their earlier group-stage encounter, which India had previously won 41-18.