The inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship is set to bring international kabaddi competition to Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in October 2026. The tournament will feature men’s and women’s competitions, bringing together teams from across the Commonwealth as the sport looks to expand its global presence.
According to the International Kabaddi Federation’s latest announcement, the championship is scheduled for October 23–31, 2026, at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Naranpura, Ahmedabad. The competition will also provide an important platform for kabaddi’s ambitions ahead of the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
Ahmedabad to Host the First Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship
The championship marks a significant development for a sport that has traditionally enjoyed its strongest following in South Asia. Organised by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI), the event aims to provide international competition for countries at different stages of kabaddi development.
Ahmedabad’s Veer Savarkar Sports Complex will host the matches, offering facilities for an international multi-team tournament.
The championship was initially listed for October 10–18 in the AKFI calendar, while subsequent announcements mentioned October 21–31. The latest federation announcement identifies October 23–31 as the revised competition window.
Fourteen Nations Expected to Compete in Ahmedabad
The championship is expected to feature representatives from Asia, Africa, Europe, North America and Oceania.
Recent reports identify 14 participating nations:
- Asia: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore.
- Africa: Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda.
- Europe: England and Scotland.
- North America: Canada.
- Oceania: Australia.
India will enter the tournament with considerable international experience, while Bangladesh and Pakistan are also expected to provide strong competition. For developing kabaddi nations, the event represents an opportunity to gain international exposure against more established opponents.
The final entry lists and competition arrangements remain subject to confirmation, with published tournament sources currently differing on the number of participating teams.
India Prepare a New Squad After Asian Games Success
India approach the championship following their successful campaign at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where both the men’s and women’s teams secured gold medals. However, the hosts are expected to field a different men’s squad for the Commonwealth tournament.
According to reports, the AKFI has selected 17 probable players for a preparatory camp, with none of the 12 members of India’s Asian Games gold-medal squad included. Among the reported probables are Naveen Kumar, Sachin Tanwar, Shubham Shinde and Surjeet Singh.
This approach could provide opportunities for players seeking to establish themselves in the national setup.
The tournament will also test India’s ability to maintain its competitive standards while introducing a different combination of raiders and defenders.
Men’s and Women’s Competitions to Highlight International Talent
Both men’s and women’s kabaddi competitions are planned for the inaugural championship. The women’s event is particularly important for expanding international participation and providing competitive opportunities beyond the Asian Games.
India and Bangladesh are among the nations expected to attract attention in the women’s competition, while teams from other Commonwealth countries will have an opportunity to measure their progress.
The final match schedule, confirmed squad lists and knockout arrangements should be checked against updated announcements from the organisers.
The competition could also help national federations identify areas requiring improvement, including defensive organisation, raiding efficiency and player development.
Commonwealth Championship Could Strengthen Kabaddi’s Global Ambitions
One of the most important aspects of the championship is its potential contribution to kabaddi’s international development. Although kabaddi has been part of the Asian Games programme for decades, it has not established a permanent place in the Commonwealth Games. The 2026 championship provides an opportunity to demonstrate the sport’s ability to attract teams from different continents and organise a competitive international event.
Ahmedabad’s preparations are particularly relevant because the Indian city is scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
The Indian Olympic Association has reportedly sought kabaddi’s inclusion in the 2030 programme, making the inaugural championship a potential showcase for the sport’s wider ambitions. However, hosting a successful tournament would not itself guarantee inclusion.
Where to Watch the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026
The International Kabaddi Federation has identified Star Sports and JioHotstar as broadcast and streaming platforms for the championship.
Fans are expected to be able to follow the tournament through television and digital coverage, although final broadcast schedules and regional availability should be confirmed closer to the opening matches.
A Significant Opportunity for International Kabaddi
The Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship 2026 represents more than another international competition. For India, it offers a chance to assess emerging talent and strengthen the national team’s player pool. For other participating countries, the tournament provides valuable experience against established kabaddi nations.
The championship could also help demonstrate the sport’s appeal beyond its traditional strongholds.
With Ahmedabad preparing to welcome international teams, the inaugural edition will be an important test of kabaddi’s ambitions to become a more widely recognised global sport.
