Southern Region I emerged as the champions of the PowerGrid Kabaddi Championship after defeating Southern Region II 38-34 in a closely fought final at Firefox Sports & Resorts in Moinabad, Hyderabad. The victory ended a 16-year wait for the Southern Region I division, making the achievement even more special for the team.
The tournament was organised by POWERGRID Southern Region I in collaboration with the Telangana Kabaddi Association. The three-day competition was held from September 4 to 6, 2026, and featured 144 employee athletes representing 12 POWERGRID teams from across the country.
Southern Region I End 16-Year Wait
Southern Region I produced a strong performance throughout the knockout stages before finally lifting the trophy. Their biggest test came in the semi-final against Corporate Centre, where they secured a narrow 42-41 victory.
The one point win showed the team’s ability to remain calm under pressure. Corporate Centre pushed SR I all the way, but Southern Region I held their nerve in the final moments to book their place in the title clash.
Southern Region II also produced an impressive performance in the other semi final. They defeated Northern Region III 39-31 to set up an all southern final against SR I.
Southern Region I Kabaddi Triumph in Final
The Southern Region I kabaddi team faced SR II in a competitive final. Both sides fought hard throughout the match, but SR I eventually secured a 38-34 victory.
The four point margin reflected the closely contested nature of the championship match. SR I were able to maintain control during the key stages and finish the tournament as champions.
The result also ended a 16-year title drought for the division. After years of waiting, the championship finally returned to Southern Region I.
Corporate Centre Finish Third
Corporate Centre missed out on the title after their narrow semi-final defeat against SR I. However, they recovered to finish third in the tournament.
Northern Region III finished fourth after reaching the semi-finals from Pool A. The two teams had earned their knockout places alongside SR I and SR II, who qualified from Pool B.
The final therefore brought together the top two teams from Pool B in an all southern battle for the championship.
Individual Awards
Several players were also recognised for their performances during the Inter Regional Kabaddi Championship.
Southern Region I’s Lavan Kumar was named the Best All Rounder for his contribution across different areas of the game. Corporate Centre’s Aman Thakur received the Best Raider award, while Southern Region II defender Clarex was named the Best Catcher.
The individual awards highlighted the quality of performances across the competition.
POWERGRID Kabaddi Championship Promotes Team Spirit
The tournament was inaugurated by POWERGRID Executive Director for Southern Region I Doman Yadav. Chief General Manager HR Arun Kumar and Telangana Kabaddi Association Joint Secretary B. Sravan Kumar were also involved in the tournament proceedings and trophy presentation.
With 144 employee athletes competing across 12 teams, the PowerGrid Kabaddi Championship provided an important platform for employees to compete while promoting fitness, teamwork and sporting spirit.
For Southern Region I, however, the biggest reward was finally ending their long wait for the title. Their 38-34 victory over Southern Region II will be remembered as a landmark moment in the division’s kabaddi history.
