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The 72nd Senior Nationals Men's Kabaddi Championship is scheduled to occur at the Sama Indoor Complex in Vadodara from February 24 to 27, 2026. This prestigious event will feature 31 teams from various regions of India, with approximately 400 players vying for the championship title, according to an official announcement.

The tournament will showcase a blend of experienced players and emerging talents. Among the notable participants are the top three raiders from Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12: Ayan Lohchab from Haryana, who achieved 316 raid points; Devank Dalal with 271 raid points; and Bharat Hooda from Services, who concluded the season with 230 raid points. Additionally, Ashu Malik, who led Dabang Delhi to victory last season, will represent the Railways, while Arjun Deshwal will captain Uttar Pradesh.

The championship will also highlight rising stars like Deepak Sankar from Tamil Nadu, who earned 64 tackle points for the Bengaluru Bulls and was recognized as the New Young Player of the Season in PKL 12. Aditya Shinde from Puneri Paltan, representing Maharashtra, recorded 159 raid points, including five super raids. Nitesh Kumar, a defender from Haryana, also made a mark with 65 tackle points and five High 5s, alongside promising players Anil from Himachal Pradesh and Uday Parte from Madhya Pradesh.

Defending champions Services, featuring a star-studded roster that includes Devank Dalal, Naveen Kumar, Bharat Hooda, Ankit Jaglan, and Jaideep Dahiya, are determined to retain their title. Railways, Haryana, and Maharashtra, with their equally strong teams, are expected to pose significant challenges, promising an intense competition.

This tournament will act as a crucial platform for both established and emerging players, as consistent performances can lead to selections for national camps, the Indian team, and professional leagues. The Senior Nationals is being co-organized by the Gujarat Kabaddi Association and the Vadodara Kabaddi Association, in collaboration with the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI). These associations are committed to ensuring seamless arrangements for athletes, officials, and teams, further enhancing Gujarat's reputation as a prime location for major sporting events.