Patna, June 16: The first Bihar Women’s Kabaddi League 2024 concluded on Sunday with Siwan Titans making history as the inaugural champions. In a thrilling final match at the local Patliputra Sports Complex, Siwan Titans defeated Saran Strikers 27-20, securing their place at the top. Saran Strikers settled for the runner-up position, while Patna Pelicans took third place in the league.
Earlier in the day, Saran Strikers advanced to the final by defeating Patna Pelicans 21-17 in a hard-fought semi-final. Preeti Kumari of Saran Strikers was honored as the best raider with 7 raid points, and Anjali Bharti of Patna Pelicans received the best defender award for her 5 tackle points.
The top three teams received cash prizes along with trophies and medals: Rs 1,51,000 for the winners, Rs 75,000 for the runners-up, and Rs 51,000 for the third-place team. Additionally, the best all-rounder received Rs 15,000, while the best raider, best defender, best referee (Rana Ranjit Singh), and best coach (Neel Kamal) were each awarded Rs 10,000 along with medals.
Sundar Kumari of Magadh Warriors claimed the title of best raider with an impressive 91 points, while Anjali Kumari of Sitamarhi Sentinels was recognized as the best defender with 48 tackle points. Nancy Priya of Nalanda Ninjas was adjudged the best all-rounder of the league.
During the awards ceremony, Bihar Sports Minister Surendra Mehta, Director General cum CEO of Bihar State Sports Authority Raveendran Sankaran, and Director cum Secretary Pankaj Kumar Raj felicitated the players and organizers. Minister Mehta emphasized the role of sports in fostering camaraderie and unity among youth in Bihar. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to promote sports across the state, including plans to establish sports clubs in every village.
Director General Raveendran Sankaran praised the collective efforts of all involved in organizing and executing the successful Bihar Women’s Kabaddi League, underscoring its significance for women’s sports in the region.
The event commenced with the national anthem followed by felicitations of the chief guest, Minister Surendra Mehta, and Kavita Selvaraj by the organizing committee, concluding with Minister Mehta meeting and congratulating all the participating players.