Bangladesh strike first in five-match series against Nepal

Bangladesh's women's kabaddi team made a convincing start to the five-match series against Nepal, defeating the Himalayan nation 34-24 in the opening match at the National Kabaddi Stadium in Paltan on Friday.

The hosts asserted themselves from the outset with aggressive attacking play, collecting points at regular intervals while remaining resolute in defence. Bangladesh took a 14-10 lead into the break against a Nepal side that had won a five-match series over the visitors in Kathmandu last year.

Tap Here to Add The Daily Star As A Trusted Source

The women in red and green maintained their momentum after the interval to seal a comfortable victory. The presence of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's daughter, Zaima Rahman, also served as a source of inspiration for the players throughout the match. Zaima later met the team to congratulate and encourage them.

Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation president and Inspector General of Police Ali Hossain Fakir inaugurated the series as the chief guest.

"Kabaddi is our national game and an inseparable part of our culture. I believe this series between Bangladesh and Nepal will strengthen the bonds of mutual respect and friendship," Fakir said.