The wait is finally over! The Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team for the upcoming Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 has been officially announced, and as expected, Ritu Negi — the captain who led India to Asian Games glory — has once again been trusted with the leadership role.
This year’s World Cup will be held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from 17th to 24th November 2025, marking the second edition of the tournament and the first-ever Kabaddi World Cup to be hosted outside India.
When and Where Is the Tournament Happening?
The Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 will take place at Dhaka, Bangladesh, from November 17 to 24.
A total of 12 nations from four different continents will compete for the prestigious world title:
- Asia: India, Iran, Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei, Nepal, Thailand
- Africa: Kenya, Uganda, Zanzibar
- Europe: Poland, Germany
- South America: Argentina
After several changes in venues — from Bihar to Hyderabad and finally to Dhaka — the stage is now set for an exciting global Kabaddi spectacle.
India’s Squad for Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025
The Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) has announced a 16-member Indian women’s team for the World Cup.
Ritu Negi, who represents Indian Railways, has been named the captain, while Pushpa Rana from Himachal Pradesh has been appointed as the vice-captain.
The squad features a balanced mix of experienced and young players who have performed brilliantly in domestic and international tournaments.
Notably, Sonali Shingate, who captained India to victory in the Asian Kabaddi Championship, is part of the squad as a key player.
Full List of Indian Players for Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025
- Ritu Negi (Captain)
- Pushpa Rana (Vice-Captain)
- Sonali Shingate
- Pooja Narwal
- Bhavna Thakur
- Sakshi Sharma
- Pooja Kajla
- Champa Thakur
- Mini Narwal
- Ritu Sheoran
- Ritu Mitharwal
- Sanju Devi
- Dhanalakshmi
- Anu Kumari
The team will be guided by two of the most experienced minds in Indian Kabaddi —
Tejaswini Bai (Head Coach) and Kavita Selvaraj (Assistant Coach) — both known for their tactical sharpness and ability to bring the best out of their players.
Ritu Negi to Lead Once Again – India Aiming to Defend Their Title
The decision to retain Ritu Negi as captain reflects the management’s confidence in her leadership.
Calm under pressure and exceptional in defense, Ritu has consistently proved to be one of the best in the sport.
Alongside her, Pushpa Rana brings experience and aggression, while Sonali Shingate’s raiding skills will be key to India’s attacking strategy.
India enters this World Cup as the defending champions, having won the inaugural Women’s Kabaddi World Cup in 2012 held in Patna, Bihar, where they defeated Iran 25–19 in the final.
Now, after a gap of 13 years, the team will look to recreate that historic triumph.
Dhaka Ready for a Global Kabaddi Carnival
The city of Dhaka is gearing up to host the grandest Kabaddi event of the decade.
As the first-ever Women’s Kabaddi World Cup held outside India, this edition is expected to draw huge local and international interest.
The host nation Bangladesh will look to capitalize on home advantage, while strong teams like Iran, Thailand, and India are among the top favorites.
With 12 countries from four continents participating, this tournament highlights Kabaddi’s growing recognition as a global sport.
India’s Kabaddi Legacy and the Road Ahead
India has always been a powerhouse in Kabaddi — both men’s and women’s.
From winning the 2012 World Cup to claiming multiple Asian Games and Asian Championships, the Indian women’s team has set the benchmark for excellence.
The current squad combines youth and experience, ensuring depth in every department.
Players like Sonali Shingate and Pooja Narwal are expected to lead the attack, while defenders such as Ritu Negi and Bhavna Thakur will fortify the backline.
With strategic guidance from Tejaswini Bai and Kavita Selvaraj, the team’s preparation looks solid for another world-class performance.
The Indian Tigresses Ready to Roar Again
The Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 is not just a competition — it’s a celebration of Indian women’s strength, resilience, and passion for Kabaddi.
After a 13-year wait, the stage is set once again for India to showcase their dominance.
Under Ritu Negi’s captaincy, the team looks determined to defend their crown and script another golden chapter in Indian Kabaddi history.
Fans across the nation will be eagerly waiting to see if India can bring the trophy home once again from Dhaka.
