New Delhi: The Indian women’s handball team stands on the threshold of history as they prepare for a high-stakes clash against former winners Japan at the Asian Women’s Handball Championship 2024 on Friday.
After a commanding win over Hong Kong-CHN and a narrow two-point loss to heavyweights Iran, India’s spirited run has brought them within reach of a milestone: a victory could not only secure a semi-final spot but also their first-ever qualification to the IHF World Women’s Handball Championship, to be held in Germany and the Netherlands in 2025.
Presented by the World Handball League (WHL) and organised by the Asian Handball Federation, India is hosting the tournament for the first time at the Indira Gandhi Arena, New Delhi, from December 3 to 10.
According to the points table, Team India currently have 2 points and a goal difference of +1, placing them second in their group, just behind Japan. They are level on points with Iran, who also have 2 points but sit behind India due to a goal difference of -18.
While India will face Japan, Iran, semi-finalists in the previous two editions, will play against Hong Kong-CHN on Friday. If India match or surpass Iran’s result, while maintaining a better goal difference, they will move onward and make history.
Also at the Indira Gandhi Arena on Friday, reigning champions South Korea will be looking to make it three wins out of three when they take on China in their final group game.
Kazakhstan, meanwhile, will face Singapore, who are winless thus far. As it stands, South Korea top the group with four points, followed by China and Kazakhstan, both with two points from two games in their group.
Doordarshan are the broadcast partners of the 20th Asian Women’s Handball Championship; DD’s broadcast will include highlights aired at prime time and live coverage on final days
Meanwhile, the matches will be streamed live on SportCast India’s YouTube channel.
