20th Asian Women's Handball Championship: Dates, Full Schedule, Venue, Participating Nations, Groups

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India is set to host the 20th Asian Women's Handball Championship (AWHC) for the first time at the Indira Gandhi Arena in New Delhi. The event, organised by the Asian Handball Federation and presented by the World Handball League, will take place from December 3 to 10. This marks a significant milestone as it's the first time the tournament is being held in South Asia.

The tournament will feature eight teams divided into two groups of four. India is placed in Group B with Japan, Hong Kong, and Iran. Meanwhile, Group A includes reigning champions South Korea, Kazakhstan, China, and Singapore. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.

As hosts, India aims to secure a top-four finish at the AWHC 2024. Achieving this would qualify them for the 2025 World Women’s Handball Championships in Germany and the Netherlands. However, they face tough competition from 16-time champions South Korea and former winners Japan and Kazakhstan.

India has participated in the AWHC seven times before: in 1993, 2000, 2008, 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2022. Their first victory came in their third appearance in Bangkok against Qatar. In recent years, India's performance has improved significantly.

South Korea is a powerhouse in women's handball with an impressive record at both Olympic and AWHC levels. They have won two golds, three silvers, and a bronze at the Olympics. Their dominance began with a win over China in the inaugural AWHC in 1987.

Kazakhstan ended South Korea's winning streak by defeating them in Almaty in 2002 to claim their first title. They won again in 2010. Japan also broke through by winning their first title in 2004. Both nations will compete alongside South Korea at this year's event.

India's Rising Talent

The Indian women's youth team has shown promise with a fourth-place finish at the 2022 Asian Women’s Youth Handball Championship. Additionally, India's Golden Eagles Bharat secured a podium finish at the recent Asian Women’s Club League Championship.

This success highlights India's growing talent pool and potential for future achievements on the continental stage. Hosting the AWHC could inspire more young players to take up handball.

Tournament Schedule

The championship promises thrilling matches as top teams compete for glory. With strong contenders like South Korea, Japan, and Kazakhstan participating alongside host nation India, fans can expect high-stakes action throughout this prestigious event.