72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship: Rakesh Kumar Commends Day 1 Quality, Highlights Kabaddi's Growth
Synopsis
The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship in Vadodara is showcasing the sport's growth. Rakesh Kumar praises the quality of play from both seasoned and young athletes, noting standout performances and the bright future of kabaddi in India.
Key Takeaways
Promising performances from both seasoned and young players Haryana's strong contenders with players like Ayan and Vijay Malik Vidarbha's impressive showing against Uttar Pradesh Importance of domestic tournaments in athlete development Pro Kabaddi League's role in enhancing kabaddi's popularity
Vadodara, February 25 (NationPress) The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship is currently underway at the Sama Indoor Stadium in Vadodara. This event serves as a crucial platform for aspiring athletes to showcase their talents, while simultaneously reflecting India's growing prowess in the sport.
On the first day of the tournament, Rakesh Kumar, a selector from the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI), expressed his optimism regarding the quality of play observed.
“The performances of the teams on opening day have been quite promising. A blend of seasoned players from the Pro Kabaddi League and a substantial number of young talents are excelling at the Nationals,” the selector remarked.
“Haryana appears to be a formidable contender with standout players like Ayan and Vijay Malik. While Railways and Services are traditionally strong teams, it was impressive to see how competitive the other teams were,” he noted.
“Vidarbha's performance against Uttar Pradesh was remarkable, as they led for a time before narrowly losing in the closing moments. Moreover, Gujarat’s triumph over Punjab was noteworthy. Such displays highlight the significant growth of kabaddi throughout the nation,” he added.
“This advancement can be attributed to the Pro Kabaddi League and the federation's efforts in organizing events both domestically and internationally. This framework has inspired young athletes to embrace kabaddi with great enthusiasm,” he stated.
Numerous young players have caught the attention of selectors. “We witnessed many promising talents in action. Nitesh Kumar from Tamil Thalaivas stood out. Additionally, two players from Vidarbha impressed, with teams like Pondicherry and Andhra Pradesh also showcasing strong performances,” the selector observed.
The selector emphasized the vital role of domestic competitions in nurturing talent, underscoring the importance of Nationals in shaping careers.
“Events like the Senior and Junior Nationals are pivotal in a player’s career trajectory. Junior Nationals provide pathways to opportunities in the PKL and the New Young Players’ initiatives, while Senior Nationals not only offer exposure but also ensure career stability through certificates, medals, and eligibility for government and service positions,” he elaborated.
The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship, featuring 29 teams and around 400 players, will continue in Vadodara until February 27.
Point of View
The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship not only serves as a platform for emerging talent but also reflects the increasing competitive spirit and depth in Indian kabaddi. The event's structure and support from the Pro Kabaddi League illustrate a promising future for the sport.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Senior Men's National Kabaddi Championship?
The Senior Men's National Kabaddi Championship is crucial for showcasing talent and providing opportunities for players to advance their careers, especially through exposure and recognition from selectors.
How many teams are participating in this year's tournament?
This year's tournament features 29 teams and approximately 400 players competing for national recognition.
Who are some standout players in the tournament?
Notable players include Ayan and Vijay Malik from Haryana, and Nitesh Kumar from Tamil Thalaivas, who have all shown exceptional skills during the matches.
What role does the Pro Kabaddi League play in the sport's growth?
The Pro Kabaddi League has significantly contributed to kabaddi's growth by providing a platform for players to showcase their skills and by inspiring young athletes to take up the sport.
When does the tournament conclude?
The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship will conclude on February 27.
