Speaking to IANS after India successfully defended its men\u2019s kabaddi title, Jaideep said the players remained completely focused on their campaign and the final against a strong Iranian side.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cYes, we brought churma from our home. We also brought ladoos and khoya from our home. But the food here was also good. We used to get paratha, roti, etc.,\u201d Jaideep told IANS.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Indian team completed an unbeaten campaign in Aichi-Nagoya with a hard-fought victory over Iran at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India and Iran traded points in a closely contested first half, with India eventually trailing 17-18 at the break. Arjun Deshwal and Devank Dalal led India\u2019s attack, while Jaideep and Sumit produced crucial defensive interventions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India raised the intensity after the break and gradually took control of the contest. A key defensive effort from Sumit and Jaideep helped India put pressure on Iran before Aslam Inamdar brought the scores level with a successful do-or-die raid.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Arjun then managed to get past Iran captain Fazel Atrachali, setting up an All-Out that gave India a five-point advantage with 10 minutes remaining.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jaideep said the team had been fully aware of the challenge posed by Iran and had little time or opportunity to look beyond the competition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cWe were very focused. We were waiting for this match. Iran is a very strong team. And this was the only match between us and our gold medal. And we came here to win our gold medal,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India held its nerve in the closing stages, with Sumit, Rahul Sethpal and the rest of the defence denying Iran a late comeback as the team sealed a 40-34 victory.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jaideep dedicated the gold medal to his brother for the support he had provided throughout his journey.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI dedicate this medal to my brother. He has supported me a lot. My brother has supported me a lot. So, I dedicate this medal to my brother,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jaideep dedicated the gold medal to his brother for the support he had provided throughout his journey.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cEveryone should play cricket. It is a good thing, but we should also support other sports and take them forward,\u201d Jaideep said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n