The 72nd Women’s Senior National Kabaddi Championship in Hyderabad delivered a notable showcase for Indian women’s kabaddi, with strong displays through the league phase, a hard-fought knockout run, and a final that ended in dramatic fashion.
League phase sets the tone
The league stage provided a steady platform for what followed. Indian Railways, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu stood out as the most consistent sides across the pools, pairing organised defence with productive raiding groups. Tamil Nadu’s Karthika R made an early impact with her attacking output, while Uttarakhand’s Bhumika and Chhattisgarh’s Chhaya drew attention for their consistency and heavy workload over multiple games. For several teams, the league matches also helped settle combinations that later mattered in the knockouts.
Knockouts bring higher intensity
The tempo increased in the knockout rounds. Indian Railways came through the quarterfinals convincingly, and Haryana built momentum as the pressure rose. A key quarterfinal result saw Tamil Nadu get past Chandigarh in a tight contest, highlighting how composure in crucial moments can prove decisive regardless of expectations.
Haryana hold their nerve in a defining semifinal
The semifinal between Haryana and Himachal Pradesh emerged as one of the tournament’s signature matches. Himachal Pradesh arrived with strong form and were widely viewed as among the favourites after their league and quarterfinal performances. Haryana, though, produced a controlled and disciplined effort, managing the early pressure before taking command later on. Nikita set the standard, and Haryana’s defence stayed resolute against Himachal’s raiding threats, ultimately ending Himachal Pradesh’s title push and sealing a place in the final.
Late surge seals the final for Haryana
The final between Haryana and Indian Railways proved a fitting conclusion. It stayed finely balanced, with the advantage swinging back and forth. In the closing minutes, Haryana remained composed and produced a late push to move in front and secure the championship. Nikita led the way with 17 points, driving the turnaround, with Ruchi and Raj Rani providing important support. Haryana’s timely defensive work helped them see out the finish under sustained pressure.
Standout contributors across the tournament
Across the championship, individual efforts added further shape to the story. Railways’ Pooja and Sonali Shingate were among the most dependable performers in high-stakes games, while Himachal Pradesh’s Pushpa and Jyoti played key roles in their run to the semifinals. Defensive contributions also carried weight, with Chandigarh’s Monika and Haryana’s supporting defenders influencing outcomes in ways that went beyond the scoreboard.
Haryana ultimately lifted the title after finding their best form at the right stage of the competition. Indian Railways ended as runners-up following another consistent campaign that took them to the final, while Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu claimed bronze medals after their semifinal finishes.
Overall, the championship underlined the increasing depth and competitiveness of women’s kabaddi in India, with the 72nd edition combining quality performances with memorable moments from start to finish.
