Exciting Kabaddi Championship Set to Kick Off in Vadodara

72nd Senior Nationals Men's Kabaddi Championship 2026

The 72nd Senior Nationals Men's Kabaddi Championship is scheduled to unfold at the Sama Indoor Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat, from February 24 to 27, 2026.

This prestigious event will feature 31 teams from various regions of India, with approximately 400 players ready to compete for the coveted title, as stated in an official announcement.

Under the auspices of the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI), the tournament will showcase a blend of experienced players and emerging talents.

Notable participants include top performers from the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12, who will be eager to demonstrate their skills.

Among the key players to watch are the leading raiders from PKL Season 12: Ayan Lohchab from Haryana, who achieved an impressive 316 raid points, Devank Dalal with 271 points, and Bharat Hooda from Services, who concluded the season with 230 points.

Ashu Malik, who guided Dabang Delhi to victory last season, will represent the Railways, while Arjun Deshwal will take on leadership responsibilities for Uttar Pradesh.

The championship will also highlight rising stars like Deepak Sankar from Tamil Nadu, who earned 64 tackle points for the Bengaluru Bulls and was honored as the New Young Player of the Season in PKL 12.

Maharashtra's Aditya Shinde, a raider for Puneri Paltan, will also be in action, having scored 159 raid points, including five super raids.

Defender Nitesh Kumar from Haryana, another standout with 65 tackle points and five High 5s, will participate alongside promising players Anil from Himachal Pradesh and Uday Parte from Madhya Pradesh.

The defending champions, Services, will enter the tournament with a star-studded roster featuring Devank Dalal, Naveen Kumar, Bharat Hooda, Ankit Jaglan, and Jaideep Dahiya, all aiming to defend their title.

Railways, Haryana, and Maharashtra are expected to pose significant challenges with their strong squads, setting the stage for an intensely competitive championship.

This tournament will also act as a crucial platform for both established and emerging players, as consistent performances can lead to selections for national camps, the Indian team, and professional leagues.

The Senior Nationals is being co-hosted by the Gujarat Kabaddi Association and the Vadodara Kabaddi Association, which, in collaboration with AKFI, have made extensive arrangements for athletes, officials, and teams, further enhancing Gujarat's reputation as a prime location for major sporting events.