72nd Senior Nationals Men's Kabaddi Championship 2026: PKL Stars Gear Up for Vadodara Showdown

The 72nd Senior Nationals Men's Kabaddi Championship 2026 kicks off tomorrow at Vadodara's Sama Indoor Complex, running from February 24 to 27, 2026.

Expect high-octane action as 31 teams and nearly 400 players from across India battle for kabaddi supremacy in this marquee AKFI-organised event.

Blending Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 heroes with fresh talents, the tournament promises thrilling raids and tackles. Keep eyes on top PKL raiders: Haryana's Ayan Lohchab (316 raid points), Devank Dalal (271 points), and Services' Bharat Hooda (230 points). Ashu Malik, who captained Dabang Delhi to PKL glory, suits up for Railways, while Arjun Deshwal leads Uttar Pradesh's charge.

Rising stars shine too-Deepak Sankar (Tamil Nadu) brings 64 tackle points from Bengaluru Bulls and PKL's New Young Player award. Maharashtra's Aditya Shinde (Puneri Paltan, 159 raid points, 5 super raids) joins Nitesh Kumar (Haryana, 65 tackles, 5 High 5s), plus Anil (Himachal Pradesh) and Uday Parte (Madhya Pradesh).

Defending champions Services reload with Devank Dalal, Naveen Kumar, Bharat Hooda, Ankit Jaglan, and Jaideep Dahiya, gunning for back-to-back titles. Railways, Haryana, and Maharashtra field powerhouse squads, fueling intense rivalries. Beyond the action, top performers eye national team spots and pro league contracts.

Hosted by Gujarat Kabaddi Association and Vadodara Kabaddi Association with AKFI backing, the event highlights Vadodara's rise as a kabaddi hotspot, complete with top-notch facilities for players and fans.