Services emerged victorious in a nail-biting finale against Railways to claim the 71st Senior National Men’s Kabaddi Championship at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack on Sunday.
Led by Pro Kabaddi League star Naveen Kumar, Services prevailed 30-30 (6-4) in a tie-breaker, showcasing remarkable composure when it mattered the most.
The final was a star-studded affair featuring some of India’s top talents, including Railways’ dynamic raider Pankaj Mohite and defensive stalwart Parvesh Bhainswal. Services’ defensive combination of Jaideep Dahiya and Rahul Sethpal — winners of the PKL in season 11 — proved crucial in key moments.
READ | 71st Senior National Kabaddi C’ships: Maharashtra, Haryana, Services advance in dominant fashion
Services’ path to glory included an impressive 43-35 semifinal triumph over Punjab, while Railways had secured its final berth with a convincing 42-34 win against Uttar Pradesh. Earlier in the tournament, Railways had dominated Rajasthan (54-31) in their quarterfinal matchup, while Services overcame Haryana (43-32).
The final day also saw notable performances in other quarterfinals, with Uttar Pradesh defeating Goa 51-26, and Punjab edging past Maharashtra 35-26.
