The 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship, held in the historic city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, concluded on January 11, 2026, with an electrifying Day 8 that featured high-stakes finals in both the men’s and women’s categories. Organized by the Volleyball Federation of India, this prestigious event showcased the best talent from across the country, with teams battling for national supremacy. Inaugurated by Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the championship ran from January 4 to 11, drawing enthusiastic crowds and highlighting the growing popularity of volleyball in India.
Day 8 was packed with intense action, culminating in dramatic finals that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Here’s a detailed recap of the key matches and standout performances.
Women’s Final: Kerala Defends Dominance Against Railways
In a gripping five-set thriller, the Kerala women’s team emerged victorious against the formidable Indian Railways, securing the championship title with a 3-2 win (22–25, 25–20, 25–15, 22–25, 15–8). This victory marks Kerala’s continued dominance in women’s volleyball, having won the title five times in the last six seasons.
Kerala started on the back foot, dropping the first set 22-25 as Railways’ aggressive serves and blocks set the tone. However, the defending champions rallied in the second set, leveraging precise attacks and solid defense to win 25-20. The third set saw Kerala pull away decisively at 25-15, with standout contributions from players like Ann V Jacob and Anna Mathew, who delivered powerful spikes and crucial blocks. Railways fought back in the fourth set to force a decider (22-25), but Kerala sealed the match in the fifth with a commanding 15-8, showcasing their grit and teamwork.
Key performers for Kerala included Anagha Radhakrishnan and Anusree KP, whose clinical finishing and tight defense were instrumental in the comeback. This win underscores Kerala’s strategic depth and resilience, making them a force to reckon with in Indian volleyball.
Men’s Final: Indian Railways Overpowers Kerala
The men’s final pitted Indian Railways against Kerala in what promised to be a clash of titans. Railways dominated the encounter, defeating a lackluster Kerala side to claim the gold medal. While exact set scores weren’t immediately available, Railways’ superior blocking and teamwork overwhelmed Kerala, who struggled to replicate their earlier tournament form.
Railways’ path to the final included a hard-fought semifinal win over Services 3-2 (21-25, 25-23, 21-25, 25-17, 15-14), highlighting their ability to thrive under pressure. Stars like Rohit Kumar and Angamuthu shone brightly, with their powerful serves and spikes dismantling Kerala’s defense. This victory adds another chapter to Railways’ storied history in national volleyball.
The Punjab men’s team secured the bronze medal, adding to the day’s celebrations.
Overall Tournament Insights and Standouts
Throughout the championship, teams like Kerala, Railways, Services, and Haryana displayed exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Kerala’s women’s team, in particular, maintained an impressive run, dropping minimal sets en route to the title. The event not only crowned champions but also spotlighted emerging talents who could represent India on the international stage.
This year’s championship, with its blend of veteran prowess and youthful energy, reinforces volleyball’s rising status in India’s sporting landscape. Fans can look forward to more exciting action in future editions.
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