Pakistan opened their men’s team campaign at the Asian Games kabaddi in Nagoya with a commanding 65-22 victory over Malaysia on Monday.

Pakistan led 38-11 at halftime before extending their advantage in the second half to complete a 43-point win at Tokai Citizen Gymnasium.

Pakistan’s defence and attacking play kept Malaysia under sustained pressure. . Malaysia managed four bonus points, while Pakistan also recorded one super-tackle point.

The result gives Pakistan a strong start in Group B, with their next match against Nepal scheduled for Tuesday morning.

Pakistan will face Nepal at 9:30 am on Tuesday before meeting Thailand on September 23 and Iran on September 24. Malaysia, meanwhile, will play Thailand on Tuesday before facing Iran and Nepal later in the group stage. 

The Group A carries India, South Korea, japan and Bangladesh. Top two teams will qualify for the semi-finals.

India will defend the title.

India had defeated Iran 42-32 in the final of the 2023 Asian Games held in Hangzhou. Pakistan had clinched bronze medal in the previous edition.