The 72nd Senior National Men’s Kabaddi Championship in Vadodara has officially moved into its high-stakes knockout phase as of February 26, 2026. After intense group-stage clashes, the first round of Pre-Quarter Finals concluded at the Sama Indoor Complex, with traditional powerhouses advancing to the next round.
The tournament has brought together the nation’s best kabaddi talent, with players showcasing their skills and fighting for glory on the national stage.
Match Results: February 26, 2026
The day featured decisive group-stage matches and crucial pre-quarterfinal encounters that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Pre-Quarter Final Results
- Indian Railways defeated Gujarat – 57 to 38
- Bihar edged past Karnataka – 38 to 34
- Haryana dominated Madhya Pradesh – 45 to 26
- Tamil Nadu beat Chandigarh – 38 to 35 (Tie-break)
Tamil Nadu’s victory came after a dramatic golden raid tie-break, keeping spectators on edge until the final whistle. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit and skill level on display throughout the championship.
Group Stage Results
- Services defeated Goa – 51 to 22
- Maharashtra overwhelmed Pondicherry – 69 to 21
- Himachal Pradesh narrowly beat Rajasthan – 56 to 53
These results finalized the quarter-final lineup and highlighted the depth of talent across teams. The close contest between Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan demonstrated that even group-stage matches carried significant intensity.
Key Results at a Glance
| Match | Result |
| Indian Railways vs Gujarat | 57–38 |
| Bihar vs Karnataka | 38–34 |
| Haryana vs Madhya Pradesh | 45–26 |
| Tamil Nadu vs Chandigarh | 38–35 (Tie-break) |
| Services vs Goa | 51–22 |
| Maharashtra vs Pondicherry | 69–21 |
| Himachal Pradesh vs Rajasthan | 56–53 |
Tournament Highlights
Presence of Pro Kabaddi Stars
The championship features several players known for their performances in professional leagues, adding star power and experience to the competition. Notable participants include:
- Ashu Malik representing Indian Railways
- Naveen Kumar playing for Services
- Arjun Deshwal in the Uttar Pradesh squad
Their participation has elevated the competitive intensity of the tournament. Young players get the opportunity to test themselves against established stars, while selectors get a clear view of how these players perform under pressure.
Dramatic Tie-Break Finish
Tamil Nadu’s pre-quarterfinal clash against Chandigarh was one of the most gripping matches of the tournament so far. After a closely fought contest where both teams refused to give an inch, the game went into a golden raid tie-break.
The tension in the arena was palpable as each raid carried the weight of potential elimination. Tamil Nadu held their nerve and secured victory by a narrow three-point margin, sending their supporters into celebration and leaving Chandigarh to rue what might have been.
Title Contenders Emerging
Defending champions Services and last year’s runners-up Indian Railways continue to display dominant form, strengthening their position as serious title contenders. Both teams remain unbeaten and carry strong squad depth heading into the quarter-finals.
Services’ comprehensive victory over Goa demonstrated why they are the team to beat. Indian Railways’ 57-point performance against Gujarat showed their offensive firepower. If these two meet in the later stages, it could be a final worthy of the occasion.
National Team Implications
Performances in this championship are expected to play a key role in national team considerations for upcoming international tournaments, including preparations linked to the Asian Games cycle.
Selectors are closely monitoring standout performances across positions. For players on the fringe of national selection, a strong showing in the knockout stages could make all the difference. For established stars, consistency matters.
Quarter-Finals Schedule
The quarter-final matches are scheduled to begin tonight at 8:00 PM at the Sama Indoor Complex. With elite teams and experienced players entering the decisive stage, fans can expect high-intensity battles as the race for the national title tightens.
The format now becomes single elimination – win and advance, lose and go home. This pressure often brings out the best in players, and the quarter-finals promise no shortage of drama.
What to Watch in the Knockouts
Several storylines will unfold as the tournament progresses.
Can Services defend their title? The champions have looked strong so far, but the knockout stage brings new challenges. Every opponent will be gunning for them.
Will Indian Railways go one better? After finishing as runners-up last year, Railways will be hungry to claim the top spot. Their experienced squad knows what it takes to go deep.
Can any underdog break through? Bihar’s narrow win over Karnataka showed they can compete with established teams. A quarter-final upset would send shockwaves through the tournament.
Who steps up in pressure moments? The tie-break victory for Tamil Nadu highlighted how crucial composure is in knockout kabaddi. Teams that hold their nerve usually advance.
For fans in Vadodara and watching from afar, the next few days will determine who takes home the prestigious national title. The stage is set, the teams are ready, and kabaddi action awaits.