In the fast-paced and thrilling world of kabaddi, a select few players have transcended the sport to become legends. They are the icons whose names are etched into the history books, their performances so dominant and game-changing that they have inspired millions. A list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players is a celebration of these elite athletes, who possess a unique blend of skill, strength, strategy, and an unyielding will to win. These players didn’t just play the game; they reinvented it. From the audacious raiders who defied all expectations with their lightning-fast moves to the rock-solid defenders who formed an impenetrable wall, each player on this list has left an indelible mark on the sport.
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has provided the perfect platform for these athletes to showcase their talent to a global audience, and it is largely through their legendary performances in the league that they have earned a spot on our list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players. These are the stars who have shattered records, won championships, and become a benchmark for all who follow in their footsteps. Their stories are a testament to the power of dedication and the art of the game. So, without further ado, let’s count down the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players of all time.
Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players
10. Rahul Chaudhari
Known as the “Raid Machine” and “Showman” for his charismatic presence and exceptional raiding skills, Rahul Chaudhari was one of the faces of the Pro Kabaddi League in its early seasons. He was the first player to achieve 500, 700, and 800 raid points in the PKL, demonstrating a level of consistency and longevity that few others have matched. Chaudhari’s signature running hand touch and agility made him a nightmare for defenders, and he was a constant threat on the mat. His ability to perform under pressure and lead his team from the front cemented his place on our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Chaudhari was not only a prolific raider but also a leader. He captained the Telugu Titans for several seasons, showcasing his strategic mind and leadership qualities. Despite never winning a PKL title, his individual brilliance and impact on the sport are undeniable. He was a central figure in popularizing kabaddi in its early days, making him a household name. His journey from a young raider to a veteran statesman of the game is an incredible one, and a key reason he is considered one of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Rahul Chaudhari was the first player in PKL history to score 1000 raid points. |
9. Manjeet Chhillar
Manjeet Chhillar is a name synonymous with versatility and dominance. An exceptional all-rounder, he was a force of nature who could single-handedly change the course of a match with his powerful tackles and clever raids. Chhillar’s aggressive and intimidating style of play made him a defender’s worst nightmare and a team’s most valuable asset. His tactical acumen and leadership qualities are what make him a strong contender on our list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Chhillar’s legacy is built on his defensive prowess. He holds the record for the most tackle points in the history of the Pro Kabaddi League. His famous block and dash moves were almost impossible to counter, and he led his teams to multiple final appearances. He was an integral part of India’s gold-medal-winning teams at the Asian Games and Kabaddi World Cup, showcasing his dominance on the international stage as well. His ability to contribute on both ends of the mat makes him a truly elite star, and a worthy mention on this list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Manjeet Chhillar has the record for the most High 5s in the history of the Pro Kabaddi League. |
8. Ajay Thakur
Ajay Thakur, known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances, is a true big-game player. His lanky frame and long reach made him a dangerous raider, capable of picking up crucial points at critical moments. He was often the last man standing on the mat, and his ability to pull off a “do-or-die” raid in a pressure situation is what made him a fan favorite and a constant presence on our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Thakur’s most iconic moment came at the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup, where he was the star performer for India. His brilliant raiding display, including a crucial Super 10 in the final, helped India win the gold medal. He also led the Tamil Thalaivas in the PKL, where he was a one-man army for his team, carrying the raiding load with distinction. His consistency, leadership, and ability to perform when it mattered most are the key reasons why he is a must-have on any list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Ajay Thakur was the top-scorer for India at the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup with a total of 68 raid points |
7. Deepak Niwas Hooda
Deepak Niwas Hooda is a powerhouse all-rounder known for his clinical and precise play. He is one of the most reliable players in the history of the Pro Kabaddi League, consistently delivering points for his teams in both raiding and defense. Hooda’s versatility and endurance have been on full display throughout his career, making him an invaluable asset and a clear choice for our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Hooda’s journey is a testament to his determination. After making a name for himself as a star raider, he developed his defensive skills to become one of the most effective all-rounders in the sport. He was a key part of the Indian national team that won the gold medal at the Asian Games and also led the Jaipur Pink Panthers to a PKL title. His ability to perform under pressure and his consistent contributions on both sides of the mat are why he’s considered one of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Deepak Niwas Hooda holds the record for the most raid points by an all-rounder in the history of the PKL. |
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6. Fazel Atrachali
Fazel Atrachali, an Iranian import, is arguably the greatest defender in the history of the Pro Kabaddi League. Known as the “Sultan,” Atrachali’s intimidating presence, powerful blocks, and tactical awareness have made him a captain and a defensive cornerstone for every team he has played for. His dominance as a non-Indian player is what makes him a truly special inclusion on our list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Atrachali’s tackling ability is a work of art. He is famous for his ankle hold, which has left countless raiders helpless. He has led his teams to multiple championships and holds the record for the most tackle points by a foreign player. He also captained the Iranian national team to an upset victory over India at the 2018 Asian Games, a moment that showcased his leadership and defensive brilliance. His sheer dominance as a defender makes him a permanent fixture on any list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Fazel Atrachali is the only defender in PKL history to cross the 400 tackle point mark. |
5. Pardeep Narwal
Known as the “Dubki King” for his iconic signature move, Pardeep Narwal is widely regarded as one of the greatest raiders of all time. He is a record-breaker and a legend in the Pro Kabaddi League, having led the Patna Pirates to three consecutive titles, a feat that has yet to be replicated. His explosive speed and ability to score multiple points in a single raid make him a unique and special player on our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Narwal holds numerous records, including the most raid points in a single season and the most raid points in a single raid, a sensational eight-point raid that remains one of the most iconic moments in the sport’s history. His career is a collection of impossible feats and moments of pure brilliance, and he is a fan favorite for his fearless and unstoppable style of play. His impact on the sport is immense, making him a central figure in any discussion of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Pardeep Narwal holds the record for the most raid points in a single PKL season with 369 points in Season 5. |
4. Anup Kumar
Anup Kumar, also known as “Bonus Ka Baadshah” (The King of Bonuses) and “Captain Cool,” is one of the most respected and revered figures in kabaddi history. As a raider, his strategic mind and cool temperament were his greatest weapons. He was a master of the bonus point, and his ability to read the game and lead his team with poise under pressure is what makes him a truly legendary player on our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Kumar captained U Mumba to a PKL title and led the Indian national team to gold medals at the Asian Games and the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup. His leadership was as important as his raiding, and he was known for his calm and composed decision-making on the mat. He was a role model for countless aspiring players, and his legacy as a leader and a player is a massive part of why he is considered one of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Anup Kumar led India to a gold medal in the 2014 Asian Games and the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup. |
3. Pawan Sehrawat
Pawan Sehrawat, nicknamed the “Hi-Flyer” for his spectacular jumps and high-flying raids, is an explosive raider who has taken the Pro Kabaddi League by storm. His incredible athleticism, raw power, and daring moves make him a nightmare for any defensive unit. He has a unique ability to score points from seemingly impossible situations, and his dominance in the modern era of kabaddi is what earns him a spot on our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Sehrawat holds the record for the most raid points in a single match, a breathtaking performance where he scored an incredible 39 points. He has led the Bengaluru Bulls to a title and has been a consistent MVP candidate, showcasing his ability to lead from the front. His sheer athleticism and ability to innovate on the mat have made him a superstar and a true icon of the sport. His is a special case on a list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players, as his dominance is in the recent past.
| Stat | Pawan Sehrawat holds the record for the highest individual score in a single PKL match with 39 raid points |
2. Naveen Kumar
Naveen Kumar, known as “Naveen Express,” is a prodigy who redefined what it means to be a modern-day raider. He burst onto the scene in the Pro Kabaddi League with his incredible speed, agility, and a relentless point-scoring ability. Naveen was the first player to be born in the 21st century to play in the PKL, and he quickly became one of the league’s most valuable players, and a lock on our list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Naveen’s signature move is the “running hand touch,” which he executes with incredible precision. He holds the record for the most consecutive Super 10s and led Dabang Delhi to their maiden PKL title. His remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure have earned him back-to-back MVP awards, a testament to his sheer dominance. His rapid rise to the top of the sport makes him one of the most exciting players to watch and a sure pick for any list of Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Naveen Kumar holds the record for the most consecutive Super 10s in the PKL with 28. |
1. Rakesh Kumar
Rakesh Kumar is a true legend and arguably the greatest kabaddi player of all time. An all-rounder with an incredible blend of power and technique, he was a force of nature in both raiding and defense. Kumar was a key member of the Indian national team for over a decade, and he led the team to multiple gold medals at the Asian Games and the Kabaddi World Cup. His all-around game and leadership qualities are why he tops our list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Kumar’s career highlights are a testament to his dominance. He was a central figure in India’s success on the international stage, and his ability to perform at the highest level for so long is what sets him apart. He was the most expensive player in the first-ever PKL auction, a testament to his value and reputation. He was a leader, a mentor, and a champion, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of kabaddi players. His impact is undeniable, and his is a story that should always be at the top of a list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
| Stat | Rakesh Kumar was the most expensive player in the inaugural Pro Kabaddi League auction, purchased for ₹12.8 lakh |
FAQs
Q1: What is a “Super 10” in kabaddi?
A1: A Super 10 is a term used in the Pro Kabaddi League when a raider scores 10 or more raid points in a single match. It is a key indicator of a raider’s dominance, and a major factor in determining the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players.
Q2: Who is the “Dubki King” of kabaddi?
A2: Pardeep Narwal is famously known as the “Dubki King” for his signature move, the ‘dubki,’ a swift and low-ducking maneuver used to evade defenders. He is a clear inclusion on our list of the Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players
Q3: Is kabaddi played outside of India?
A3: Yes, kabaddi is an international sport, with many countries participating in events like the Kabaddi World Cup and Asian Games. One of our Top 10 Greatest Kabaddi Players, Fazel Atrachali, is from Iran.
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