Kabaddi, India’s own indigenous sport, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of sports lovers across the country. Every year, the Senior National Kabaddi Championship brings together the best state teams, top athletes, and emerging talents under one roof, creating an atmosphere of pure intensity and pride. The 72th Senior National Kabaddi Championship 2026 has once again lived up to expectations, with high-quality competition, thrilling matches, and significant implications for future international events.
This year’s championship has been organised in two separate phases for women and men, ensuring better focus, smooth execution, and wider attention for both categories. While the women’s championship has already concluded with memorable moments, the men’s tournament is set to take place soon, promising four days of high-voltage kabaddi action.
Overview of the 72th Senior National Kabaddi Championship 2026
The 72th edition of the Senior National Kabaddi Championship is being conducted under the guidance of the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI). This prestigious tournament acts as a crucial platform for players aiming to represent India at the international level and also serves as a talent pool for professional leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League.
In 2026, AKFI decided to conduct the championship in two different cities. The women’s matches were held earlier in Hyderabad, while the men’s championship has been allotted to Gujarat, a state with a strong kabaddi culture and passionate fan base.
72th Senior National Kabaddi Championship 2026 – Men’s Tournament Details
The 72th Senior National Kabaddi Championship – Men is scheduled to be held from 24th February to 27th February 2026. The responsibility of hosting the tournament has been given to the Gujarat State Kabaddi Association, which has chosen Vadodara as the host city.
All matches will take place at the SAG Indoor Complex, New Sama Road, near Chanakyapuri Society, New Sama, Vadodara – 390024. The venue is well-equipped to host a national-level indoor sporting event and is expected to witness strong attendance from local kabaddi fans.
Vadodara’s selection as the host city adds excitement, as Gujarat has consistently produced strong kabaddi players and teams at the national level. The city’s infrastructure, connectivity, and experience in hosting sports events make it an ideal choice for such a prestigious championship.
Eligibility Criteria and Match Regulations for Men’s Championship
The men’s tournament will strictly follow the regulations laid down by AKFI to maintain fairness and competitiveness. Players participating in the championship must meet the weight eligibility limit of 85 kg or below, while the age category remains open, allowing both experienced veterans and young talents to compete together.
As per the unanimous decision taken during the AKFI Annual General Meeting on 6th April 2025, each team will consist of 14 players. This rule has been implemented to bring uniformity across all national tournaments.
All matches will be played on mat surfaces, ensuring player safety and consistent playing conditions throughout the event. Wearing proper playing shoes is mandatory for every player. Any participant without appropriate footwear will not be permitted to take the mat, underlining AKFI’s emphasis on professionalism and safety standards.
Entry Process and Player Registration Guidelines
Participation in the 72th Senior National Kabaddi Championship requires strict adherence to the entry and registration process. All teams must complete the online entry form, and a printed copy of the same must be carried to the venue for verification.
Online player registration on the official AKFI website is compulsory, and every player must possess a valid online registration number or ID card. Players without this registration will not be allowed to participate under any circumstances.
Once the online entry form is submitted, changing the chest number is not permitted. Additionally, players must carry physical proof of their Aadhaar Card, which will be checked during registration and the official weighing process. These measures ensure transparency and authenticity at the national level.
Live Telecast and Streaming Details of Men’s Championship
Kabaddi fans who cannot be present at the venue will still have a chance to follow the action. As per available information, the live telecast may be available on Star Sports, while live streaming could be accessible via JioHotstar. However, it is important to note that these broadcast details are not officially confirmed yet.
An official announcement regarding live coverage is expected closer to the tournament dates. Given kabaddi’s growing popularity, fans are hopeful that the matches will be broadcast nationally.
72th Senior National Kabaddi Championship 2026 – Women’s Tournament Recap
The 72th Women’s Senior National Kabaddi Championship 2026 was successfully held from 27th January to 30th January 2026 at the Balayogi Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad. The tournament featured 28 teams from across the country, making it one of the most competitive editions in recent years.
In a thrilling final, Haryana defeated Indian Railways by a narrow margin of 39-37 to lift the championship trophy. The final match kept fans on the edge of their seats and showcased the rising standard of women’s kabaddi in India.
The tournament witnessed the participation of 378 players, including several members of India’s Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025-winning squad. The overall quality of matches highlighted the depth of talent available in Indian women’s kabaddi.
Importance of the Championship Ahead of Asian Games 2026
The women’s championship also served as a crucial selection benchmark for the Asian Games 2026, scheduled to be held in Nagoya, Japan, from 19th September to 4th October 2026. Performances in this tournament are expected to play a key role in shaping the final Indian squad.
With the Indian Kabaddi Team set to participate in the 20th Asian Games, both men’s and women’s national championships become extremely significant. Strong performances here can open doors to international representation and long-term careers in the sport.
