JOIN USEnthused by the huge public response to first World Cup Kabaddi, Badal has decided to take the game to the hotbed of traditional Punjab style kabaddi game and it has been decided to hold the matches in 12 venues, mostly in the rural areas, an official said.
Twelve nations, including Pakistan, Canada and Afghanistan, have already confirmed their participation in the Cup, according to Sikander Singh Maluka, President Punjab Kabaddi Association.
The newly constructed floodlit stadium at Bathinda would witness a glittering opening ceremony.
Bathinda would also host both the semifinals.The industrial city of Ludhiana would witness the culmination of the Cup as the closing ceremony and the final match will be held there.
This year's prize money has been doubled and Rs 2 crore would be given to the winning team while Rs 51 lakh would be given to the runners-up, Rs 25 lakh to the second runners-up and Rs 20 lakh to the team finishing fourth.
Work on 13 new stadiums being constructed at a cost of Rs 111 crore was in full swing and all these floodlit stadiums would be ready by September end to host the Cup, Maluka said.
He said besides hosts India, the other teams taking part in the tournament include Canada, Pakistan, USA, Australia, Afghanistan, UK, Iran, Italy, Norway and Spain.