The Dubai Kabaddi Masters was a 6 nation Kabaddi Masters series which was held in the United Arab Emirates for 9 days from 22 June 2018 – 30 June 2018.[1] This was also the inaugural edition of the tournament.[2] This was the first international kabaddi sport event to be witnessed in the UAE.[3] The tournament featured defending world champions India, Pakistan, Iran, Republic of Korea, Argentina and Kenya. India was regarded as the firm favourites to lift the inaugural Dubai Kabaddi Masters title.[4] The tournament was hosted at the Al Wasl Sports Club in Dubai.[5]
The opening encounter of the tournament was held between arch rivals India and Pakistan, the first rivalry match between these two teams since the 2016 Kabaddi World cup.[6][7] India scored against Pakistan 36–20 in the opening match.[8]
Before the commencement of the opening match of the tournament on 22 June Friday, the Pakistan team was scheduled to be arrived on 21 June, Thursday but their arrival to Dubai was delayed due to visa issues.[9] The Indian Kabaddi team also played a warm-up match against their Asian rivals South Korea as a preparation to the tournament.[10]
The current Indian Union sports minister and former professional shooter, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore invited as the chief guest on the eve of the opening clash between India and Pakistan.[11]
The six teams are divided into 2 groups of 3 teams. The teams in a group plays each other twice with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the knockout stages (semi-finals).[5]
United Arab Emirates
India
Iran
Pakistan
South Korea
Kenya
Argentina