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Kurnool Clinches Andhra Pradesh Senior Men's Handball Title in Thrilling 23-20 Victory

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, December 6th 2025 at 23:08 GMT by The Hans India

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Kurnool Clinches the Andhra Pradesh Senior Men’s Handball Championship – A Detailed Summary

In a dramatic finish that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, the Kurnool Handball Club captured the Andhra Pradesh Senior Men’s Handball Championship title on Sunday evening. The final, played at the state‑level venue in Guntur, saw Kurnool triumph over the defending champions from Guntur District with a narrow yet decisive 23‑20 victory. The win not only secures a prestigious trophy but also marks a historic milestone for Kurnool’s handball fraternity, which has been steadily rising through the ranks of the sport in recent years.

The Road to the Final

The tournament began on the 12th of March with 12 teams representing the various districts of Andhra Pradesh. The competition followed a double‑round robin format, after which the top four teams progressed to the semi‑finals. Kurnool, led by seasoned coach S. Raghavan, showcased a disciplined defence and a high‑tempo offence, finishing the group stage with 5 wins and only a single loss. The only defeat came at the hands of the Hyderabad Runners, a team that had historically been a powerhouse in the state.

In the semi‑finals, Kurnool faced the Vizag Vipers. The match was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads. Kurnool’s pivot, Praveen Kumar, made a game‑changing play in the final minutes, securing a 19‑17 win and propelling the team to the championship decider.

Meanwhile, the Guntur team had a flawless path. They dominated all three of their group matches, and in the semi‑final, they dispatched the Kakinada Kestrels 22‑15. Their victory was built on an aggressive offensive strategy, led by captain R. Devendra, who added 8 goals in the semi‑final.

The Final – A Thrilling Battle

The final, held in front of a packed crowd of 3,500 spectators, was a testament to the growing passion for handball across Andhra Pradesh. Both teams started the match with high energy, but Kurnool’s strategic playmaking and Guntur’s relentless pressure created a back‑and‑forth scoreline.

Key moments:

• Opening 10 minutes: Kurnool’s left‑winger, Naveen, stole the initiative by scoring two quick goals from the wing, giving his team a 4‑0 lead.
• Mid‑game exchange: Guntur fought back with a 5‑2 run, narrowing the deficit to 6‑7. This was largely attributed to Devendra’s rapid counter‑attacks.
• Second half surge: Kurnool’s coach Raghavan made a pivotal tactical change by shifting to a 1‑5 formation. The adaptation forced Guntur’s defence into a congested shape, allowing Kurnool to capture four successive points.
• Last minute drama: With just 30 seconds on the clock, Guntur’s center back, S. Lakshmi, took a risky long‑range shot that was initially ruled out for off‑side. However, after a re‑evaluation by the referee, the goal stood, bringing the score to 22‑22. Kurnool, however, responded with a swift fast break that culminated in a clutch goal by captain Venkatesh, sealing a 23‑20 victory.

The final whistle left the Kurnool squad in tears of joy and Guntur in disbelief, but both teams received standing ovations for a display of skill and sportsmanship.

Key Players & Performances

Coaching also played a significant role in the outcome. Coach Raghavan’s decision to shift formations mid‑game is widely credited as the tactical edge that tipped the balance in Kurnool’s favour.

Broader Significance & Future Prospects

The victory is a watershed moment for handball in Kurnool. Over the last decade, the district has invested heavily in sports infrastructure, including a new indoor court and training facilities for youth academies. This title validates the district’s development strategy and showcases the potential of local talent.

In an interview with the sports editor of The Hans India, the Kurnool Sports Officer, Dr. P. Srinivasa Rao, said, “This win is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players and coaches. We are now eyeing participation in the National Handball Championship, where we aim to challenge the traditionally dominant teams from Karnataka and Maharashtra.”

Kurnool’s success also shines a light on the growing popularity of handball across Andhra Pradesh. In 2022, the Andhra Pradesh Handball Federation (APHF) launched a statewide talent identification program that has already produced over 100 athletes, many of whom are now part of the state’s senior squads.

The final’s broadcast on regional channels, coupled with extensive coverage on digital platforms, has amplified the sport’s visibility, potentially attracting sponsorships and partnerships for the future. The APHF’s CEO, Mr. S. Manjunath, expressed optimism, stating, “We’re witnessing a renaissance in handball. This victory is just the beginning.”

In Conclusion

Kurnool’s triumph in the Andhra Pradesh Senior Men’s Handball Championship is not merely a sporting success; it reflects the district’s broader commitment to nurturing talent, investing in sports infrastructure, and promoting healthy competition. With the national stage now within reach, Kurnool’s handball community looks forward to building on this momentum and aiming for greater heights in the coming years.