Bangladesh started their campaign of the IKF second Women鈥檚 Kabaddi World Cup with a 42-22 win over African champions Uganda in the opening game of the competition at the Shaheed Suhrawardy Indoor Stadium in the city on Monday.
The tournament returns after a 13-year gap since the maiden edition was held with the participation of 16 teams in India in 2012, with Bangladesh losing to Japan in the quarter-finals.
The hosts led the first half 14-12 before securing additional points in the second half of the Group A match, which took place in a packed venue following a vibrant opening ceremony for the 11-nation event.
Uganda fought well in both halves on their maiden appearance, but the physically stronger side fell short of experience and tactics against Bangladesh, who looked slightly defensive at the start of the game.
Bangladesh compelled Uganda into two all-outs during the second half, significantly increasing their lead. Bangladesh accumulated 28 points after the interval, Uganda could only manage 10.
Bangladesh will face Germany in their second match on Tuesday, while Uganda will face Thailand on Wednesday.
In their other group matches, Bangladesh will play India and Thailand on November 19 and 22, respectively.
Youth and sports adviser to the interim government Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan earlier inaugurated the eight-day-long event as the chief guest.
International Kabaddi Federation president Vinod Kumar Tiwari, Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation president and IGP Baharul Alam, and general secretary SM Nawaz Shohag were also present on the occasion.
Highlighting Bangladesh鈥檚 heritage, a dazzling cultural show was held in the opening ceremony, featuring dance troupes performing in both indigenous and contemporary styles accompanied by traditional music.
