Kabaddi World Cup 2025 Kicks Off In The UK For The First Time

The Kabaddi World Cup 2025 has kicked off, making waves as the tournament is being held for the first time outside of Asia, and the excitement is palpable across the UK. The event, hosted across the vibrant cities of Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, and Walsall, promises to showcase the best of this intense and exhilarating sport.

This year’s competition began on March 17, 2025, and will run until March 23, 2025, featuring two separate champions' brackets: one for men and one for women. The history of Kabaddi is rich and closely tied to its roots in South Asia, where it enjoys massive popularity. It is not just played widely across India and Pakistan but is upheld as the national sport of Bangladesh. The tournament seeks to expand the sport’s international footprint.

The 2025 tournament includes nine men’s teams divided between two groups: Group A comprises England, Hungary, Poland, and the USA, whereas Group B includes India, Italy, Scotland, Wales, and Hong Kong. On the women's side, Group D features India, Wales, and Poland; Group E includes Hong Kong, Hungary, and England.

On the opening day of the Championship, thrilling matches unfolded, showcasing why Kabaddi is referred to as the ultimate test of endurance and skill. Among the highlights, England faced off against Hungary, decisively winning by 101-25; India dominated Italy 64-22; and Wales defeated Poland 58-44, bringing excitement to the local fans. The women’s matches saw strong performances as well with Hong Kong triumphing over Hungary and Wales narrowly edging out Poland.

Kabaddi games are typically played on court dimensions of 13 meters by 10 meters, with two teams of seven athletes each. The game's unique structure involves players taking turns as 'raiders,' whose job is to sprint across to touch opponents without getting tackled, all the whilst chanting "Kabaddi, Kabaddi" to demonstrate their control over breath and strategy. This style of play not only requires physical prowess but also tactical thinking and teamwork.

Let’s take a quick look at the upcoming fixtures: March 18 features matches including Italy against Wales and the high-stakes showdown of India versus Wales. The women’s finals are scheduled for March 23 at 1:45 PM, immediately followed by the men’s finals at 3:30 PM. Each match promises to be another nail-biter filled with the suspense of what Kabaddi brings.

With this being the first Kabaddi World Cup to take place outside of Asia, it carries significant historical weight. Organizers hope this will boost the sport's awareness and popularity across new markets, solidifying Kabaddi’s place on the global sports stage. Experts and fans alike eagerly anticipate whether India, as the reigning champions since their double victory at the last edition held in Malaysia, will rise again to claim the title.

„Kabaddi is played regularly in India and Pakistan, often celebrated as part of major cultural events and festivities. This tournament is pivotal as it encapsulates the spirit of competition and showcases athletic excellence,” notes experts following the tournament.

Indeed, the Kabaddi World Cup 2025 is not just about the trophy or the glory; it embodies aspirations for broader recognition. This includes numerous fans tuning in via live streams, not missing out on what has become one of the year’s most eagerly awaited sporting events. Whether through public viewings or broadcasts, the clamoring crowds and fervent supporters are set to transform venues as national pride takes center stage.

Moving forward to the semifinals, where the stakes turn even higher, the excitement is only expected to grow. The anticipation surrounding the Kabaddi finals is unmatched, and fans from all over can gear up for thrilling plays, heart-stopping moments, and unforgettable sportsmanship.

The backstories of the players and the individual brilliance on display throughout this week frame Kabaddi as more than just sport; it’s storytelling at its finest. Prepare for a week filled with nail-biting matches, as this tournament marks not just the championship, but also the cultural exuberance of Kabaddi coming alive on international soil.

With matches playing out daily, whether live at the venues or streamed online, Kabaddi's unique spirit continues to capture hearts, redefining the boundaries of athleticism and entertainment.