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Kabaddi

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description Kabaddi Overview

Kabaddi is a contact team sport with roots in South Asia, especially India and neighboring countries. In a standard raid, one player enters the opposing half, attempts to tag defenders, and tries to return to their own side without being tackled. Organized versions use a marked court and scoring system, and the sport requires no ball or specialized equipment.

help Kabaddi FAQ

How does a kabaddi raid work?

A raider enters the opposing half, attempts to tag defenders, and must return to their own half without being tackled. Traditional rules require the raider to maintain a continuous cant, commonly repeating “kabaddi” on one breath.

How many players are on the court in standard kabaddi?

Each side fields 7 players on the court at a time. Substitutes and squad sizes vary by competition, but the seven-player on-court format is the standard most viewers see.

What changed when the Pro Kabaddi League began?

The Pro Kabaddi League launched in India in 2014 and helped standardize a more television-friendly version of the sport. Its rules use a 30-second limit for each raid, adding a clear clock to the traditional breath-based challenge.

Does kabaddi require equipment?

The sport needs no ball, bat, or protective playing equipment to begin, because scoring comes from raids and tackles. Players still compete on a marked court, and professional leagues use formal uniforms, referees, and timing systems.

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