New Delhi, Aug 22 (IANS): The International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) on Monday announced that Gujarat would be the host state for the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup, starting from October 7.

The state will play host to 12 Kabaddi teams -- India, the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, Iran, Poland, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Korea, Japan and Kenya. 

Speaking on the development, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said: "We are delighted that the city of Ahmedabad will host the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup conducted by the IKF.

"Our state extends enthusiastic support for showcasing this World Cup as a truly world class sports event, and draws inspiration from our Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to take our nation ahead in every sport. As the world is witnessing the year of Olympics, Gujarat will like to lead this way for India in this objective." 

IKF president Janardan Singh Gehlot said: "The IKF has worked to develop Kabaddi as a competitive discipline and is confident that our sport is all set to breakthrough on a global stage with the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup."