In Kabaddi, the Raid is the most important offensive move. It is the only way a team scores points by attacking the opponent’s side of the court.
How a Raid Works
- The Entry: One player, called the raider, runs across the midline into the opponent’s half of the court.
- The Cant: The raider must repeatedly shout the word “Kabaddi” in a single breath. This is called the “cant.” If the raider stops breathing or stops the chant before returning to their side, they are out.
- The Attack: The raider tries to touch one or more defenders with their hands or feet.
- The Escape: After making a touch, the raider must run back and cross the midline to their own side to score points.
Scoring Points
- Touch Points: The raider earns one point for every defender they touch, provided they return home safely.
- Bonus Points: If the raider crosses the “Bonus Line” when at least six defenders are on the court, they earn an extra point.
- Defensive Points: If the defenders catch and pin the raider down before they cross the midline, the defending team earns a point instead.
The Rules of a Raid
- Time Limit: A raider has exactly 30 seconds to complete the raid.
- The Struggle: Once a touch occurs, a “struggle” begins. The defenders try to tackle the raider, while the raider fights to reach the midline.
- Out of Bounds: If any part of the raider’s body touches the ground outside the court boundaries, they are out.
Simple Summary: A raid is a 30-second mission where one player tries to tag opponents and return home without getting caught.