Every kabaddi fan knows the sound a crowd makes after a super raid. The noise rises, then explodes. Here is what these big moments mean.
The super raid
A super raid is when a raider scores three or more points in a single raid. It could be touching three defenders, or touching two and earning a bonus point, as long as the total reaches the threshold.
It is one of the most exciting plays in the sport. The raider has to beat a group of defenders, escape their grip, and return safely. When it works, it can swing the match.
What makes it so hard
To score a super raid, a raider needs to read the defence, beat several players, and still get back across the line in 30 seconds. Defenders work in chains and corners, so there is little space. Only the quickest and most skilful raiders can do it regularly.
The super tackle
A super tackle happens when the defence successfully tackles a raider while their team has only a small number of players on the mat. In some competitions, the defending team earns an extra point for this.
It is the defensive equivalent of a super raid. It shows a team that stays calm under pressure and finds a way to stop the raider even when outnumbered.
Why they matter
Both moves create big momentum shifts. A super raid can bring a team back from the brink, and a super tackle can break the opposition’s spirit. They are also moments that crowds remember.
The tactics behind them
Coaches plan for these moments. A team might send in its best raider when the defence is thin, hoping for a super raid. A defence might hold its position and wait for the raider to take a risk.
Watching for them
Keep an eye on the player count. When a team has few players on the mat, a super tackle becomes possible, and the raid becomes riskier. When a team has many players, a super raid is harder, but the reward is higher.
A highlight reel
When you search for the greatest moments in kabaddi, you will find many super raids and super tackles. They are the plays that capture the speed, courage and skill of the game, and they are the best way to fall in love with it.