Gurugram Gurus Register First Win, Hisar Heroes Enter Semifinals as Panthers Dominate in KCL

The Kabaddi Champions League delivered another gripping day of action as Gurugram Gurus finally opened their account in Match 20, edging past Karnal Kings in a tense 24-23 contest.

Both teams traded blows in a tightly fought encounter, with Surender Gill leading the raiding charge for Karnal while Gurugram relied on a disciplined defensive unit spearheaded by Rahul Setpal. The scores stayed neck-and-neck across both halves, with neither side conceding an all-out.

In the final moments, Gurugram kept their composure, executing crucial tackles to seal their first victory of the season.

"This win means a lot to us. We stayed calm in the last few minutes and trusted our defence. Getting our first victory will boost the confidence of the entire squad,"

said Gurugram defender Rahul Setpal.

• Raider of the Match: Surender Gill (Karnal Kings)
• Defender of the Match: Rahul Setpal (Gurugram Gurus)

Hisar Heroes Book Semifinal Spot with Dominant Win

Match 21 witnessed Hisar Heroes produce a commanding all-round performance against hosts Sonipat Stars, winning 40-26 to become the first team to qualify for the semifinals.

After an early exchange of points, Hisar's defence - marshalled by Surjeet Narwal and Sourav Nandal - took complete control, inflicting multiple all-outs on the Stars. Ashu Malik anchored the raiding unit, while Sonipat's Ayan Lohchab showed fighting spirit with a series of brave raids despite limited support.

Hisar maintained composure and defensive discipline in the second half to keep the contest firmly in their grasp.

"Qualifying for the semifinals feels special. This team has shown belief, discipline and hunger in every match, and we want to keep this momentum going," said Ashu Malik.

• Raider of the Match: Ayan Lohchab (Sonipat Stars)
• Defender of the Match: Sourav Nandal (Hisar Heroes)

Panipat Panthers Dominate Rohtak Royals

The day concluded with a ruthless display from Panipat Panthers, who crushed Rohtak Royals 53-35 in Match 22.

Narender Kandola set the tempo with early super raids, forcing an all-out within the opening minutes. He was well supported by Meetu Sharma, who later completed his Super 10. Rohtak struggled to cope with Panipat's relentless pressure and conceded multiple all-outs as the Panthers surged to a comprehensive win.

"The team gave me confidence to play freely. Our raiding and defence clicked together today, and these kinds of performances help us grow stronger as a unit," said Meetu Sharma.

• Raider of the Match: Meetu Sharma (Panipat Panthers)
• Defender of the Match: Naveen (Rohtak Royals)

League Officials Praise KCL's Rising Standards

Kabaddi legend Anup Kumar lauded the quality of matches in the league, saying, "The Kabaddi Champions League is producing high-quality contests. The intensity, young talent, and tactical growth on display show how strong the future of Indian kabaddi is. "

Kuldeep Dalal, Haryana State President of the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India, added, "Haryana continues to be the heartbeat of kabaddi. Platforms like KCL are giving players the exposure and confidence needed to perform at the highest level. "

With first-time victories, semifinal qualifications, and dominant performances, the Kabaddi Champions League continues to raise the bar as the tournament moves into its decisive phase.