How Many Players in Kabaddi? Positions, Roles & Complete Guide
Kabaddi is one of the most exciting and fast-paced sports that originated in India and is now loved worldwide through leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) and international tournaments. While the game looks simple—raiders trying to tag opponents and defenders stopping them—it actually has a very structured team format.
One of the most common questions fans ask is: How many players are there in Kabaddi? Along with that, people are also curious about the kabaddi position names and the exact roles each player has on the mat.
This article explains everything you need to know about the number of players in kabaddi, kabaddi positions, rules, reserves, and responsibilities.
👥 Total Number of Players in Kabaddi
- In a standard kabaddi match, each team has 7 players on the court.
- Apart from these, teams can keep 5 substitute players, making the total squad size = 12 players.
- At any time, only 7 players actively play on the mat.
👉 So the answer is simple:
Number of players in Kabaddi (per team) = 7 (playing) + 5 (reserves) = 12 total.
📊 Kabaddi Positions and Player Distribution
Kabaddi is not just about raiding and defending randomly; every player has a specialized role. Below is a breakdown:
| Position Name | Role in Kabaddi | No. of Players |
|---|---|---|
| Raider | Attacks, enters opponent’s court, scores points by tagging | 1–3 |
| Defender (Corner) | Strongest defenders, stop raiders using tackles | 2 |
| Defender (Cover) | Support tacklers, block raiders from escaping | 2 |
| All-Rounder | Can raid & defend both, versatile role | 1–2 |
👉 In simple terms:
- 1–3 Raiders are key attackers.
- 4–5 Defenders protect their half.
- 1–2 All-rounders balance the team.
⚡ Kabaddi Position Names Explained
Let’s understand the kabaddi position names in detail:
1. Raider 🏃♂️
- The star attacker of the team.
- Task: enter the opponent’s half, tag defenders, and return without getting caught.
- Famous Raiders: Pardeep Narwal, Naveen Kumar, Rahul Chaudhari.
2. Left & Right Corner Defenders 🚧
- Positioned at the extreme ends of the defense line.
- Task: powerful ankle/leg holds to stop raiders.
- Known as the strongest defense pillars.
3. Left & Right Cover Defenders 🛡️
- Stand next to corner defenders.
- Task: block raiders using chain tackles and thigh holds.
- Work in coordination with corners.
4. All-Rounder 🔄
- Balance between raiding and defending.
- Provides flexibility when team needs extra support.
- Example: Deepak Hooda, Mohammad Esmaeil Nabibakhsh.
🏟️ Reserve Players in Kabaddi
- Each kabaddi team has 5 substitute players.
- Substitutes can replace raiders, defenders, or all-rounders at any time.
- Coaches use them strategically depending on match situation.
This ensures that even if a player gets injured or is out of form, the team always has backup.
🌍 International Kabaddi Rules on Player Count
According to the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF):
- A team consists of 12 players total (7 on-court, 5 reserves).
- Teams must have a minimum of 7 players to start a match.
- If players reduce below 7 due to fouls/injuries, the match can be forfeited.
📌 Key Points to Remember
- How many players in Kabaddi? – 7 on mat per team.
- Total players per squad? – 12 (7 playing + 5 reserves).
- Kabaddi positions? – Raider, Left/Right Corner, Left/Right Cover, All-Rounder.
- Extra rule: Some formats also allow a “super substitute” in tournaments.
❓ FAQs on Kabaddi Players & Positions
12 players per team (7 active + 5 substitutes).
Usually 2–3 raiders in playing seven.
Raider, Left Corner, Right Corner, Left Cover, Right Cover, All-Rounder.
Yes, once substituted in, they can raid or defend depending on role.
Corner defenders are considered the toughest role because they must stop speedy raiders.
🏁 Conclusion
So now you know the answer to: How many players are there in kabaddi?
Every kabaddi team has 7 players on the mat and 5 substitutes, making a total of 12 players. Each of them has a specific position – raiders, defenders, and all-rounders – which makes the sport highly strategic.
Whether you’re a new fan watching the Pro Kabaddi League or following international kabaddi, understanding player count and positions helps you enjoy the game even more.
Kabaddi is not just about strength but also about strategy, teamwork, and perfect execution of roles. That’s why this ancient Indian sport has grown into a global favorite.
