Kabaddi team honoured for C’wealth bronze

Bangladesh's national kabaddi team, which secured a bronze medal at the inaugural 2026 Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship in Ahmedabad, India, was felicitated at a ceremony in Dhaka recently in recognition of its achievement.

The reception was organised by Yawar Khan, chairman of the Asian Catering Federation and founder and chairman of the Asian Curry Awards, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, City Centre.

Players from the national men's and women's teams, coaching staff and officials of the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation attended the event.

Bangladesh reached the semi-finals of the championship, where they faced hosts India, before finishing with a bronze medal. The reception recognised the players' dedication, discipline and collective efforts during the competition.

Addressing the ceremony, Yawar Khan congratulated the team, saying their performance reflected determination, unity and discipline and had brought pride to the country. He also expressed hope that the achievement would inspire future generations of athletes.

Anisa Khan, the England kabaddi team's captain of Bangladeshi origin, was also present and congratulated the Bangladesh players. She highlighted the importance of international cooperation and sharing knowledge to help develop the sport.

"Kabaddi is still a relatively new sport in England. We are at a stage where we are learning, developing our skills and working to take the game forward. Learning from countries like Bangladesh, which have a long-standing tradition and experience in kabaddi, is important for us," she said.

She added that exchanging knowledge, experience and skills among countries could help expand kabaddi's international reach.

Delwar Hossain, team manager of the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation, thanked Yawar Khan and the Asian Catering Federation for organising the reception and supporting the delegation.

He said the bronze medal reflected the players' hard work and collective commitment, adding that such recognition would motivate them and the officials to pursue greater success.

Mohammad Zahid Iqbal Almas, treasurer of the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation, also thanked the organisers, stressing the importance of international friendship and cooperation in strengthening Bangladesh's position in global kabaddi.

Players and officials from both the men's and women's national teams, along with members of the coaching staff, were honoured at the ceremony.