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Kabaddi Champions League Debuts with Sonipat vs Gurugram Opener

The inaugural Kabaddi Champions League commences on January 25 at the Sports University of Haryana in Rai. The opening night features Sonipat Stars versus Gurugram Gurus, followed by Rohtak Royals taking on Karnal Kings. Eight franchises will compete over 12 days in a league format, culminating in semifinals on February 6 and a final on February 7. The Rohtak Royals, coached by Surender Nada, are headlined by veteran all-rounder Sandeep Narwal and made Vijay Malik their most expensive auction buy.

Key Points: KCL Inaugural Match: Sonipat Stars vs Gurugram Gurus

  • Inaugural Kabaddi Champions League begins Jan 25
  • Eight Haryana franchises in 12-day league
  • Semifinals on Feb 6, final on Feb 7
  • Rohtak Royals led by veteran Sandeep Narwal
2 min read

Sonipat Stars takes on Gurugram Gurus, Rohtak Royals plays Karnal Kings in Kabaddi Champions League opener

The first Kabaddi Champions League kicks off Jan 25. Eight Haryana-based teams, including Rohtak Royals led by Sandeep Narwal, compete for 12 days.

"The opening night is set to capture the essence of regional rivalries - KCL Report"

The inaugural Kabaddi Champions League will kick off with Sonipat Stars taking on Gurugram Gurus in the opener, followed by a match between Rohtak Royals and Karnal Kings on January 25 at the Sports University of Haryana, Rai, setting the stage for an action-packed celebration.

The first-ever Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) will begin with Sonipat Stars facing Gurugram Gurus in the opening match. This will be followed by Rohtak Royals playing against Karnal Kings on January 25 at the Sports University of Haryana, Rai, marking the start of an exciting event.

Over 12 days, eight franchises, namely Sonipat Stars, Gurugram Gurus, Hisar Heroes, Bhiwani Bulls, Rohtak Royals, Karnal Kings, Panipat Panthers, and Faridabad Fighters, will battle it out in a tightly packed league format.

There will be marquee clashes, emerging rivalries and intense contests as teams push to secure a place in the knockouts and fight for the title of the first-ever KCL winners. The semifinals are scheduled for February 6, with the final set for February 7.

The opening night is set to capture the essence of regional rivalries and set the tone for the competition ahead, with multiple action-packed matches lined up to keep fans on the edge of their seats throughout the 2 weeks.

Under the guidance of head coach Surender Nada, the Royals assembled a 16-member squad, headlined by India's most successful all-rounders, Sandeep Narwal.

A multiple-time Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) champion with Patna Pirates and a former India international, Narwal brings leadership and experience to the Royals' raiding and defensive units. Several other squad members also have prior PKL experience, further strengthening the team's overall depth.

Other highlights for the franchise at the auctions included the signing of Vijay Malik as their most expensive purchase. Acquired for Rs 9.4 lakh, Malik became the costliest player for Rohtak Royals. The franchise further strengthened its core by securing several key Category A players, including Rakesh Singroha for ₹7.2 lakh, Ankit Rana for Rs 6.4 lakh, Sandeep Deswal for Rs 6 lakh, Aaryan for Rs 5 lakh, and veteran defender Sandeep Narwal for Rs 3.4 lakh.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
This is fantastic news for sports in India. Giving a platform to kabaddi beyond the PKL with regional teams will really help grassroots development. Hoping the matches get good broadcast coverage.
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Rohit P
Rohtak Royals look strong on paper with Sandeep Narwal's experience. But spending 9.4 lakh on Vijay Malik is a big gamble. Hope he justifies the price tag. My money is on Karnal Kings for the opener though!
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Ananya R
As someone from Sonipat, the excitement here is next level! The entire town is buzzing. It's more than a game; it's about district pride. Let's go, Stars! ✨
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Michael C
Interesting format. Packing so many matches in 12 days might be tough on the players. Kabaddi is physically brutal. Hope the schedule allows for proper recovery to maintain quality.
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Karthik V
Great to see veterans like Narwal getting picked and mentoring youngsters. This league should focus on creating a pipeline for the national team. All the best to all teams! 🇮🇳

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