The year 2024 became a historic milestone for kabaddi lovers in Uttar Pradesh with the successful launch of the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL). Inspired by the Pro Kabaddi League, UPKL gave local and national kabaddi players a professional platform to showcase their talent. The league not only entertained fans but also strengthened the grassroots structure of kabaddi in the state.
In this detailed article, we take a complete look at the UPKL 2024 Points Table, team performances, tournament format, semi-finals, final match results, and why the first season of UP Kabaddi League was a big success.
UP Kabaddi League 2024: A Grand Beginning
The first-ever season of UP Kabaddi League was held from 11th July to 25th July 2024 at the Sarovar Portico, Noida Indoor Stadium. The tournament featured eight franchise teams, all representing different regions of Uttar Pradesh.
A total of 120 kabaddi players participated in the league, with each team consisting of around 15 players. These players came not only from Uttar Pradesh but also from different parts of India, making the competition more competitive and exciting.
The main aim of UPKL was to provide young kabaddi players a chance to play at a professional level and prepare them for bigger leagues like Pro Kabaddi.
Teams Participating in UPKL 2024
The following eight teams took part in the inaugural season of the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League:
- Lucknow Lions
- Sangam Challengers
- Yamuna Yodhas
- Kashi Kings
- Brij Stars
- Awadh Ramdoots
- JD Noida Ninjas
- Ganga Kings of Mirzapur
Each team represented the culture and fighting spirit of its region, which added an emotional connect for local fans.
UPKL 2024 Points Table (Final Standings)
Here is the final UPKL 2024 Points Table, which clearly shows how each team performed during the league stage:
| Position | Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Champions) | Lucknow Lions | 14 | 12 | 2 |
| 2 | Sangam Challengers | 14 | 10 | 4 |
| 3 | Yamuna Yodhas | 14 | 8 | 6 |
| 4 | Kashi Kings | 14 | 7 | 7 |
| 5 | Brij Stars | 13 | 6 | 7 |
| 6 | Awadh Ramdoots | 13 | 5 | 8 |
| 7 | JD Noida Ninjas | 13 | 4 | 9 |
| 8 | Ganga Kings of Mirzapur | 13 | 2 | 11 |
Lucknow Lions dominated the league stage and finished at the top of the table, showing consistent performance throughout the season.
UPKL 2024 Tournament Format Explained
The league was played in a double round-robin format, which means:
- Each team played two matches against every other team
- Every team played a total of 14 league matches
- Teams earned points based on wins and losses
- The top 4 teams in the points table qualified for the semi-finals
This format ensured fair competition and gave every team enough opportunities to prove their strength.
Player Auction and Team Formation
The player auction for UPKL 2024 was conducted on 10th June 2024 in Greater Noida. Franchise owners bid for players in a professional auction setup, similar to big leagues.
This auction system helped in creating balanced teams and gave many local players financial security and exposure. It also showed that kabaddi is growing as a professional sport in Uttar Pradesh.
Semi-Final Qualification and Key Performances
Based on the points table standings, the following teams qualified for the UPKL 2024 semi-finals:
- Lucknow Lions
- Sangam Challengers
- Yamuna Yodhas
- Kashi Kings
The semi-final matches were intense and competitive, with teams giving their best effort to reach the final.
After thrilling encounters, Lucknow Lions and Sangam Challengers emerged victorious and booked their place in the grand final.
UPKL 2024 Final: Lucknow Lions vs Sangam Challengers
The UP Kabaddi League 2024 Final was played on 25th July 2024 and turned out to be a one-sided but memorable match.
Final Score:
- Lucknow Lions – 59 points
- Sangam Challengers – 32 points
Lucknow Lions displayed complete dominance with strong raiding, solid defense, and excellent teamwork. Their aggressive approach from the first whistle made it clear that they were determined to lift the trophy.
Lucknow Lions: The First UPKL Champions
Lucknow Lions were the most consistent and balanced team of the tournament. Their achievements include:
- Winning 12 out of 14 matches
- Staying at the top of the points table for most of the season
- Winning the final by a huge 27-point margin
Their performance proved why they deserved to be crowned the champions of UP Kabaddi League Season 1.
Prize Money and Rewards
The league also offered attractive prize money, motivating teams and players to perform better:
- Champions (Lucknow Lions): ₹10 lakh + Trophy
- Runners-up (Sangam Challengers): ₹5 lakh
Such rewards are a big boost for domestic kabaddi players and encourage more youngsters to take up the sport professionally.
Impact of UP Kabaddi League on Indian Kabaddi
UPKL 2024 proved that Uttar Pradesh has immense kabaddi talent. The league’s slogan,
“Apna Bharat, Apna Khel, Ab Khelega Uttar Pradesh”, truly reflected its vision.
The successful first season has laid a strong foundation for future editions. With better infrastructure, increased sponsorship, and fan support, UPKL can become one of the top state-level kabaddi leagues in India.
The UPKL 2024 Points Table tells the story of competition, consistency, and championship glory. Lucknow Lions’ journey from league toppers to champions will be remembered as a benchmark for future seasons.
As UP Kabaddi League grows, it will continue to create opportunities for young players and bring kabaddi closer to fans across the state. The first season has set high standards, and expectations for UPKL 2025 are already rising.
Kabaddi in Uttar Pradesh has truly arrived – stronger, faster, and more exciting than ever.
