Kabaddi, a sport deeply rooted in Indian tradition, has grown from being a rural pastime to an internationally recognized and celebrated game. Over the years, India has produced some of the finest kabaddi players who have dominated the sport at both national and international levels. These athletes have not only showcased exceptional skill and athleticism but have also contributed to the global popularity of kabaddi. Here is a detailed look at the top 10 kabaddi players in India who have left an indelible mark on the sport.
1. Anup Kumar
Anup Kumar, often referred to as the “Captain Cool” of Indian kabaddi, is one of the most celebrated players in the history of the sport. Known for his calm demeanor and exceptional leadership skills, Anup led the Indian national team to victory in multiple international tournaments, including the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup and the Asian Games.
As a raider, Anup was renowned for his signature move, the “toe touch,” which left defenders baffled. His ability to read the game and make strategic decisions on the mat made him an exceptional captain. Anup’s contribution to the sport has been immense, and his legacy continues to inspire young kabaddi players across the country.
Key Achievements:
- Captain of the Indian team that won the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup
- Gold medalist at the Asian Games (2010, 2014)
- Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) champion with U Mumba
2. Pardeep Narwal
Pardeep Narwal, known as the “Dubki King,” is a record-breaking raider who has redefined kabaddi with his extraordinary skills and fearless approach. Pardeep’s ability to perform the “dubki,” a move where he ducks under the defenders’ hands to escape a tackle, has made him one of the most lethal raiders in the sport.
Pardeep holds numerous records in the Pro Kabaddi League, including being the first player to score 1,000 raid points. His consistency and high-scoring performances have earned him the reputation of being one of the greatest kabaddi players of all time. Pardeep’s dominance on the mat has made him a fan favorite and a crucial player for any team he represents.
Key Achievements:
- First player to score 1,000 raid points in PKL
- Most raid points in a single season of PKL (369 points in Season 5)
- Three-time PKL champion with Patna Pirates
3. Ajay Thakur
Ajay Thakur, often hailed as the “Iceman” of kabaddi, is a player known for his cool-headedness under pressure and his ability to deliver in crucial moments. Ajay’s raiding style is characterized by his agility, strength, and signature move, the “frog jump,” where he leaps over defenders to escape a tackle.
Ajay was the star performer for India in the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup, where he was the top raider and played a pivotal role in securing the title for India. His leadership qualities were further recognized when he was appointed the captain of the Indian national team. Ajay’s contributions to the sport have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri award.
Key Achievements:
- Top raider in the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup
- Gold medalist at the Asian Games (2014)
- Padma Shri award recipient (2019)
4. Rahul Chaudhari
Rahul Chaudhari, also known as the “Showman,” is one of the most entertaining and prolific raiders in Indian kabaddi. Rahul’s flair, agility, and ability to score points consistently have made him one of the most successful raiders in the Pro Kabaddi League.
Rahul was the first player in PKL history to score 500 raid points, and he has been a key player for every team he has represented. His dynamic playing style and ability to perform under pressure have made him a crowd favorite and one of the most recognizable faces in the sport.
Key Achievements:
- First player to score 500 raid points in PKL
- Pro Kabaddi League Most Valuable Player (Season 4)
- Represented India in multiple international tournaments
5. Manjeet Chhillar
Manjeet Chhillar, known as the “One-Man Army,” is one of the most versatile players in the history of kabaddi. A complete all-rounder, Manjeet has excelled as both a defender and a raider, making him an invaluable asset to any team.
Manjeet’s exceptional tackling skills and ability to score raid points when needed have made him one of the most consistent performers in the Pro Kabaddi League. He is one of the few players to have crossed the 500-point mark in the league, a testament to his all-round abilities. Manjeet’s leadership and experience have also played a crucial role in guiding his teams to victory.
Key Achievements:
- PKL Best Defender (Season 1, Season 4)
- Over 500 points in PKL as an all-rounder
- Gold medalist at the Asian Games (2014)
6. Deepak Niwas Hooda
Deepak Niwas Hooda is one of the most successful all-rounders in kabaddi, known for his consistency and ability to perform in both raiding and defending. Deepak’s journey in kabaddi is inspiring, as he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected players in the sport.
As a raider, Deepak is known for his quick footwork and ability to score points in difficult situations. His versatility and leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed the captain of the Indian national team. Deepak’s all-round performances have been instrumental in his teams’ successes in various domestic and international tournaments.
Key Achievements:
- Captain of the Indian national team
- Pro Kabaddi League champion with Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Consistent top performer in PKL with over 900 points
7. Rishank Devadiga
Rishank Devadiga is a dynamic raider who has made a significant impact in the Pro Kabaddi League with his aggressive style of play and ability to score points rapidly. Rishank’s speed, agility, and knack for finding gaps in the defense have made him one of the most dangerous raiders in the league.
Rishank was a key player in U Mumba’s success during the early seasons of PKL, helping the team to reach multiple finals and win the championship in Season 2. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver match-winning performances has made him one of the top kabaddi players in India.
Key Achievements:
- PKL champion with U Mumba (Season 2)
- Prolific raider with over 600 points in PKL
- Played a crucial role in India’s success in international tournaments
8. Sandeep Narwal
Sandeep Narwal, known for his aggressive and fearless style of play, is one of the best defenders in kabaddi. Sandeep’s ability to execute powerful tackles and his relentless pursuit of raiders have earned him the nickname “Beast” on the kabaddi mat.
Sandeep’s versatility as an all-rounder, capable of both defending and raiding, has made him an invaluable player for his teams. He has consistently been one of the top defenders in the Pro Kabaddi League, and his contributions have been crucial in several of his teams’ victories.
Key Achievements:
- PKL champion with Patna Pirates (Season 3)
- One of the top defenders in PKL history with over 300 tackle points
- Gold medalist at the South Asian Games (2016)
9. Jeeva Kumar
Jeeva Kumar is one of the most experienced and reliable defenders in Indian kabaddi. Known for his strategic mind and calm demeanor on the mat, Jeeva has been a pillar of strength in defense for every team he has played for.
Jeeva’s ability to read the game and anticipate the opposition’s moves have made him one of the most effective defenders in the Pro Kabaddi League. His experience and leadership have been instrumental in guiding younger players and building strong defensive units.
Key Achievements:
- PKL champion with U Mumba (Season 2)
- Over 250 tackle points in PKL
- Represented India in multiple international tournaments
10. Ravinder Pahal
Ravinder Pahal, also known as the “Hawk,” is one of the most feared corner defenders in kabaddi. Ravinder’s signature move, the “ankle hold,” has made him one of the top defenders in the Pro Kabaddi League, consistently ranking among the highest tackle point scorers.
Ravinder’s aggressive style of play and ability to take down raiders single-handedly have earned him a reputation as one of the best defenders in the sport. His contributions have been vital in his teams’ defensive strategies, and he remains a key player in the league.
Key Achievements:
- PKL Best Defender (Season 2)
- Over 300 tackle points in PKL
- Integral part of the Indian national team’s defense
Conclusion
The top 10 kabaddi players in India have not only excelled individually but have also played crucial roles in the success of their teams, both domestically and internationally. These players have become icons of the sport, inspiring millions with their skills, dedication, and passion for kabaddi. As kabaddi continues to grow in popularity, the legacy of these players will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for future generations to build upon.
Their contributions have not only elevated the status of kabaddi in India but have also helped to establish the sport on the global stage, making it one of the most exciting and competitive sports in the world.
