Kabaddi originated in India around 5,000 years ago and is the fastest-growing sport in South Asia – second only to cricket – and is now played in more than 50 countries.

The contact sport involves teams of raiders and blockers who must score points by entering opposition’s territory, tagging an opponent and making it back to their half without being tackled to the ground.

The British Kabaddi League (BKL), now in its third season, is helping to maximise the legacy benefits from the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games by create an economic and sporting legacy for the region.

Birmingham Bulls – the reigning champions, who beat Glasgow Unicorns 48-18 to take the title – are looking to continue their success in this year’s league tournament.

After winning all their Grand Prix 1 matches in Wolverhampton last weekend, they the Bulls are currently top of the league table.

Grand Prix 2 will be played in Coventry on 3-5 May, followed by Grand Prix 3 in Glasgow on 11-12 May, before the top teams progress to the Grand Final in Birmingham on 18-19 May.

Grand Final Tickets go on sale at 9am on Wednesday (1 May) from the venue – adults £5 and children £2.50 each – either by calling – 0121 464 4373 or collecting in person from Nechells Wellbeing Centre, Rupert Street, Nechells B7 4AR. ·

This year’s BKL is an important milestone in the West Midlands’ preparations for the hosting of the Kabaddi World Cup 2025

It will be the first time kabaddi’s most prestigious tournament has been hosted outside Asia, and will feature some of the world’s best players in men’s and women’s competitions.