India complete historic double at Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship
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JYOTIRMOY HALDER
India achieved a historic double at the inaugural 2026 Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship in Ahmedabad. Both the men's and women's teams secured gold medals, with the men finishing their campaign completely unbeaten.
India Dominates Inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship
A Historic Milestone for Indian Kabaddi
India has firmly cemented its status as the global powerhouse of Kabaddi by securing a historic double at the inaugural 2026 Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship held in Ahmedabad. The men’s team delivered a commanding performance in the final, dismantling Sri Lanka with a decisive 54-20 victory. This win not only crowned them the inaugural champions but also marked the completion of a perfect tournament run, as the squad remained unbeaten across all eight of their matches.
Tactical Brilliance and Individual Excellence
The final match was a testament to the depth and versatility of the Indian squad. Aditya Shinde spearheaded the offensive efforts, tallying 10 raid points to keep the Sri Lankan defense under constant pressure. The second half saw a surge in scoring, with Bharat Hooda contributing eight points, while Pankaj Mohite and vice-captain Naveen Kumar provided crucial support with six and five points, respectively. This balanced scoring distribution highlights the team's ability to rotate talent effectively while maintaining offensive intensity.
Defensive Prowess as a Foundation for Victory
While the raiders grabbed headlines, the defensive performance led by Yogesh Dahiya was arguably the cornerstone of India’s success. Dahiya’s flawless execution, securing five tackle points without a single missed attempt, provided the stability necessary for the raiders to play with confidence. This defensive discipline has been a hallmark of Indian Kabaddi development, ensuring that the team can neutralize opponents even when the offensive flow is contested.
Completing the Double: The Women's Contribution
The men’s triumph was the final piece of a historic achievement, as the women's team had already set the standard earlier in the tournament. By defeating Uganda 35-15 in their respective final, the women’s team ensured that India would return home with both championship trophies. This dual success underscores the holistic growth of the sport across genders within India, reflecting long-term investment in training and competitive infrastructure.
Implications for the Future of Global Kabaddi
The successful hosting of the Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship in Ahmedabad signals a significant step forward in the internationalization of the sport. As an inaugural event, it provides a blueprint for future Commonwealth-level competitions, potentially paving the way for wider recognition and standardization of rules across international borders. India’s dominant performance serves as both a benchmark for other nations and a catalyst for further investment in the sport’s global ecosystem.
Conclusion
India’s performance in Ahmedabad was more than just a series of victories; it was a statement of intent for the future of professional Kabaddi. With an unbeaten record and a balanced squad capable of high-level offensive and defensive play, the Indian teams have set a high bar. As the sport continues to evolve, this historic double will be remembered as the moment Kabaddi truly arrived on the Commonwealth stage.