Uganda's She Gladiators will face hosts India in the inaugural 2026 Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship final in Ahmedabad on Saturday.
The Ugandan women secured their place after edging regional rivals Kenya 23-21 in a tense semi-final at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex on Friday.
Uganda made a strong start and opened a 12-4 lead with sharp attacking play in the East African derby.
Kenya refused to go down without a fight and gradually worked their way back into the contest.
The two sides traded scores in a nerve-racking battle where every point became increasingly important.
Uganda held their nerve when it mattered most and sealed victory on the final raid.
India booked their place in the final with a convincing 39-14 victory over Sri Lanka in the second semi-final.
The hosts extended their perfect run having won all four Group A matches before carrying that form into the knockout stage.
The two sides met earlier in the group stage when India handed the She Gladiators a heavy 41-18 defeat.
Saturday's final offers Uganda an opportunity to settle unfinished business and turn the tables on the hosts.
Their narrow escape against Kenya should give them confidence after showing composure under pressure.
However, they will need to be sharper and more consistent against India's defensive strength and coordinated raiding.
India will be equally determined to protect its unbeaten record and finish the championship with gold at home.
The argument doing the rounds in Kampala is whether the She Gladiators can bridge the 23-point gap from the group stage in a single final.
Key results from Ahmedabad:
- Semi-final 1: Uganda 23-21 Kenya
- Semi-final 2: India 39-14 Sri Lanka
- Group stage meeting: India 41-18 Uganda
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Source: Kawowo Sports
