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Kabaddi – The Kabaddi Champions League witnessed a decisive midweek stretch as teams battled for momentum, qualification, and confidence. Wednesday’s fixtures produced three distinct storylines: a long-awaited first victory for Gurugram Gurus, a semifinal berth secured by Hisar Heroes, and an emphatic win by Panipat Panthers that underlined their attacking strength as the tournament moved closer to its knockout stage.

Gurugram Gurus Secure Narrow First Win

The day opened with a closely contested clash between Karnal Kings and Gurugram Gurus that kept fans engaged until the final whistle. Both sides approached the match cautiously, with neither willing to give ground early. Karnal’s raiding responsibilities were shouldered effectively by Surender Gill, who consistently tested the Gurugram defence with sharp raids.

Gurugram, however, relied on structure rather than individual brilliance. Their defenders worked in unison, led by Rahul Setpal, ensuring Karnal were denied any momentum-changing all-out. The scoreline remained tight across both halves, reflecting the balanced nature of the contest.

In the final minutes, Gurugram displayed composure under pressure. Timely tackles and disciplined positioning allowed them to edge ahead and hold on for a 24–23 victory, marking their first win of the season. The result provided a significant morale boost for the squad after a series of narrow setbacks earlier in the league.

Hisar Heroes Become First Semifinalists

Match 21 saw Hisar Heroes deliver a commanding performance against host team Sonipat Stars, confirming their place in the semifinals with a 40–26 win. After an evenly matched opening phase, Hisar gradually asserted control through a well-organised defensive unit.

Surjeet Narwal and Sourav Nandal anchored the backline, repeatedly halting Sonipat’s raids and forcing multiple all-outs. Their defensive dominance allowed Hisar’s raiders to operate with confidence, with Ashu Malik leading a balanced attacking effort that kept the scoreboard ticking.

Sonipat found brief resistance through Ayan Lohchab, who continued to raid aggressively despite limited support from the rest of the lineup. However, Hisar’s consistency and game management ensured there were no lapses in the second half, allowing them to close out the match comfortably and become the first team to book a spot in the semifinals.

Panipat Panthers Overpower Rohtak Royals

The final match of the day featured a high-scoring encounter, with Panipat Panthers overwhelming Rohtak Royals 53–35 in a display of sustained attacking pressure. From the opening minutes, Panipat dictated the tempo, with Narender Kandola producing impactful raids that quickly unsettled the Rohtak defence.

An early all-out set the tone, and Panipat continued to capitalise on every opportunity. Meetu Sharma complemented Kandola’s aggression with measured raids, eventually completing a Super 10 as the Panthers extended their lead. Rohtak struggled to regroup and conceded multiple all-outs as Panipat maintained intensity across both halves.

Despite isolated defensive efforts, Rohtak were unable to contain Panipat’s coordinated raiding and defensive transitions, resulting in one of the most decisive victories of the tournament so far.

League Praised for Competitive Quality

Veteran kabaddi figures have taken note of the league’s rising standard. Former international Anup Kumar highlighted the competitiveness and tactical maturity on display, pointing to the emergence of young players adapting quickly to high-pressure situations. Haryana State Kabaddi officials also emphasised the league’s role in providing exposure and confidence to domestic talent competing on a professional stage.

As the Kabaddi Champions League progresses toward its decisive phase, the combination of close finishes, qualification milestones, and dominant performances continues to strengthen its reputation as a key platform for the sport’s growth in India.