The Indian men’s basketball team faced a setback in their campaign at the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers 2025, succumbing to a 63-50 defeat against hosts Kazakhstan in a Group E match held at the Republican Velodrome Saryarka on Friday.
Arvind Kumar Muthu Krishnan emerged as the standout player for India, contributing 17 points, along with eight rebounds, one assist, and five steals. Meanwhile, Vladimir Ivanov showcased a stellar performance for Kazakhstan, tallying six points, 11 rebounds, and an assist.
India began the game on a promising note, establishing a 5-0 lead. However, Kazakh point guard Rustam Murzagaliyev swiftly countered with a long-range three-pointer, narrowing the deficit to 5-3.
Despite fluctuations in momentum, India clinched the first quarter with a score of 16-13. However, Kazakhstan staged a comeback in the second quarter, outscoring India 18-10 and securing a halftime lead of 31-26.
The Indian team displayed resilience at the onset of the third quarter, leveling the scores at 31-31 courtesy of Sahaij Pratap Sekhon’s three-pointer and Krishnan’s layup. Nevertheless, Kazakhstan capitalized on turnovers to extend their lead to 44-31 by the end of the third quarter.
In the final quarter, India attempted a comeback, reducing the deficit to 44-37 before Murzagaliyev’s pivotal three-pointer propelled Kazakhstan to a 10-point lead. Despite Krishnan’s efforts to narrow the margin, Kazakhstan maintained their advantage, ultimately sealing the victory with a final score of 63-50.
India’s next challenge in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers will be against the Islamic Republic of Iran at the KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium in New Delhi on Monday.
