The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship 2026: Quarterfinals and Knockouts Recap
The third day of the highly anticipated 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship 2026 kicked off with a flurry of quarterfinals and knockout matches that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Sixteen teams clashed in eight intense matches, all vying for a coveted spot in the next round.
Quarterfinal Matches
A mix of dominant performances and nail-biting encounters saw Tamil Nadu, Chandigarh, Services, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Indian Railways, and Bihar emerge victorious and secure their spots in the quarterfinals.
The quarterfinals began with a bang as Uttar Pradesh pulled off a major upset by defeating defending champions Services with a scoreline of 55–51. Arjun Deshwal, the captain of Tamil Thalaivas in the Pro Kabaddi League, delivered a stellar performance, racking up an impressive 19 points for Uttar Pradesh.
The second quarterfinal saw Maharashtra overpower Himachal Pradesh with a commanding 53-38 win. Ajit Chouhan and Aditya Shinde led the raiding unit for Maharashtra, scoring 14 and 12 points respectively.
Tamil Nadu secured their spot in the quarterfinals by edging out Haryana in a tie-breaker, while Chandigarh dominated with a 45–26 victory over Madhya Pradesh, led by star player Pawan Sehrawat.
Another highlight of the quarterfinals was Himachal Pradesh’s thrilling victory over Rajasthan, with Pappu Kumar and Mayank Saini shining with 15 and 14 points each.
Knockout Matches
Uttar Pradesh continued their impressive run with a dominant 65–24 win over Jammu & Kashmir, while Services asserted their dominance with a 51–22 victory over Goa.
In a closely contested match, Bihar emerged victorious over hosts Gujarat with a score of 38–34. Indian Railways showcased a strong performance, defeating Karnataka 57–38 to secure their place in the next round.
Looking ahead, Indian Railways will square off against Bihar, while Chandigarh and Tamil Nadu are set to clash in the upcoming quarterfinal matches.
The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship 2026 continues to deliver thrilling matches, showcasing the resilience, skill, and passion of the participating teams. Stay tuned for more exciting kabaddi action as the championship progresses.
Upsets and Underdog Victories
One of the most intriguing aspects of the 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship 2026 has been the occurrence of upsets and underdog victories. Teams like Uttar Pradesh have managed to defy expectations and defeat more favored opponents, showcasing the unpredictable nature of kabaddi as a sport. The element of surprise adds an extra layer of excitement for fans and keeps the competition intense.
Player Performances and Rising Stars
Throughout the quarterfinals and knockout matches, certain players have stood out with their exceptional performances on the kabaddi mat. Stars like Arjun Deshwal, Pawan Sehrawat, and Ajit Chouhan have displayed their skills, agility, and strategic prowess, elevating their teams to victory. These standout players not only contribute to their team’s success but also captivate audiences with their electrifying gameplay.
Furthermore, the championship has also provided a platform for emerging talents and rising stars to make a mark in the kabaddi scene. Players like Mayank Saini and Aditya Shinde have showcased their potential and proven themselves as valuable assets to their respective teams. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on these promising players as they continue to make an impact on the kabaddi landscape.
Intense Rivalries and Anticipated Matchups
As the competition heats up, intense rivalries and anticipated matchups are set to captivate fans and players alike. The clash between Indian Railways and Bihar promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing strong performances in the knockout matches. Additionally, the showdown between Chandigarh and Tamil Nadu is expected to be a battle of skill and strategy, as two formidable teams go head-to-head in pursuit of a spot in the next round.
These matchups not only highlight the competitive spirit of kabaddi but also add an element of drama and excitement to the championship. Fans can expect high-energy gameplay, strategic maneuvers, and edge-of-the-seat action as the teams fight for supremacy on the kabaddi mat.
Continuing the Legacy of Kabaddi
The 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship 2026 serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the sport in India. With a rich history and cultural significance, kabaddi continues to capture the hearts of fans across the country, uniting communities and celebrating athleticism and sportsmanship.
As the championship progresses towards its final stages, the spirit of kabaddi shines through in every match, embodying the values of teamwork, determination, and resilience. The players showcase their skills with pride, honoring the traditions of the sport while also pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence.
With each match, the 72nd Senior Men’s National Kabaddi Championship 2026 reinforces the timeless appeal of kabaddi and paves the way for future generations of players to continue the legacy of this beloved sport.
Stay tuned for more updates, thrilling matches, and unforgettable moments as the championship reaches its thrilling conclusion.
