UPKL Season 2 Kickoff: Noida Ninjas Beat Kanpur Warriors in Opening Clash
JD Noida Ninjas Secure 39–36 Victory in Exciting Season 2 Kickoff at Noida Indoor Stadium
Noida, Dec 26: The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) Season 2 got off to a thrilling start on Thursday at the Noida Indoor Stadium, with JD Noida Ninjas claiming a narrow 39–36 win over Kanpur Warriors in the opening match.
Kanpur Warriors put up a strong fight, scoring 36 points through raids, tackles, and bonus points. However, a balanced performance from Noida Ninjas across raids and tackles helped them finish with 39 points, securing the first victory of the season.
The stadium was packed with enthusiastic fans from both sides, creating an electric atmosphere as supporters cheered their teams. Following the match, Noida Ninjas owner Deepak Nagar congratulated the team for their impressive start.
The day’s second match featured Mirzapur Kings taking on Lucknow Lions, continuing the action-packed opening day of the league.
Sambhav Jain, Founder and Director of SJ Uplift Kabaddi, noted that the league’s start was postponed by a day from December 24 due to Supreme Court and Sports Directorate directions related to pollution control.
UPKL Season 2 features 12 teams competing in a round-robin format, with each team playing 11 matches. The season includes a total of 69 matches, including one exhibition match. Several international level players, including Vinay Tewatia, Arjun Deshwal, Mohammad Aman, Abhimanyu, and RP Singh, are part of the competition.
The inaugural season of UPKL in 2024 was won by Lucknow Lions, who defeated Sangam Challengers 59–33 to lift the championship. Other teams in the fray this season include Awadh Ramdoot, Brij Stars, Ganga Kings of Mirzapur, Kashi Kings, Lucknow Lions, Yamuna Yodhas, and Sangam Challengers.
