Last Updated on May 13, 2025 by Muhammad Ramzan
We all know how popular sports like cricket, football, and basketball are. Still, if you are a nuanced sports lover, you have probably struggled to find credible coverage for fast-paced handball, kabaddi, and even the artful sport of fencing.
With the growth of the internet, there is a new wave of creators and websites who are finally directing their focus towards these unsung sports and are catering to both seasoned and new fans looking for alternative sports. So, if you’re tired of endlessly scrolling for updates on sports nobody talks about at the office, you’re in the right place.
Where to Actually Follow Underrated Sports
Surprisingly, the best places to keep up with niche sports aren’t limited to tiny blog forums or YouTube rabbit holes anymore. Today, there are full-fledged platforms—apps, websites, and even betting portals—that offer more coverage than ever. In fact, even some betting site online platforms have started highlighting the lesser-followed games, bringing real-time updates, odds, and analysis to fans who’ve been waiting far too long.
Here’s a list of the top platforms every underrated sports fan should check out:
1. ESPN+
ESPN+ is a subscription-based service that delves into topics not typically covered. You can access everything from college lacrosse and rugby to minor league games unavailable on cable.
2. DAZN
Besides covering boxing and MMA, DAZN also broadcasts events related to sports like snooker and darts and some indoor sports. It is international, so there is a broader selection.
3. FloSports
Now this is a diamond in the rough. FloSports offers coverage ranging from wrestling and cheerleading to track and field and even gymnastics. And guess what? It is all live-streamed and archived, too.
4. The Olympic Channel
If you’re looking for an infinite reservoir of niche sports like canoeing and speed skating that don’t usually get airtime, look no further. It’s constantly streaming something unique, and best of all, free.
5. YouTube Channels (Like Kabaddi Adda, PaddleTV)
Some YouTube creators are filling the gap left by major networks. With consistent uploads and interviews, they’re often more passionate than traditional broadcasters.
Why Fans Are Finally Noticing
Let’s get straight to the point. Whether in life or sports, the tale of an underdog is always captivating. Take, for example, the finishing minutes of a fencing bout or the final moments of a kabaddi match; the level of ‘real excitement’ they offer far supersedes the dramatized thrills of a Premier League duel.
This is starting to change due to new technology. Even without promotion anywhere, streaming services, social media, and digital betting are helping followers keep up with what they love. These changes offer fans an easy way to follow their favorite sport.
What to Look for in a Good Platform
Here are a few quick signs that a platform is worth your time:
- Regular updates: You shouldn’t wait three days for scores or match recaps.
- Live streaming or replays: Live is ideal, but recorded games are a solid backup.
- Community features: Comments, fan polls, or prediction games help keep it fun.
- Stat tracking: Some stats go a long way, even if they’re not as fancy as the major leagues.
- Mobile friendly: You want it smooth on your phone—period.
Betting on Underrated Sports: A Hidden Advantage?
If you’re into sports betting, here’s a little secret—betting on less popular sports often brings better odds and more favorable opportunities. Why? Because fewer people are wagering, and the data is less saturated.
That’s where AI-driven and niche-friendly platforms like MelBet Instagram come into play. These platforms don’t just push the top leagues—they let you explore odds, stats, and match info on sports most people haven’t even heard of. And yes, it can be more fun and potentially even more rewarding if you’ve got your eye on a sport most bettors ignore.
Niche Sports with Growing Online Audiences
Here’s a quick list of underrated sports getting more digital attention lately:
- Kabaddi (India’s own thrilling contact sport)
- Handball (A fast, high-scoring hybrid of basketball and soccer)
- Table Tennis (Lightning-speed action with growing pro circuits)
- Badminton (High skill, widely loved in Asia, gaining global steam)
- Snooker (Calm, tactical, and great for patient viewers)
Each of these sports now has apps, leagues, and communities that are expanding fast, many driven by increased digital coverage and better access to data.
How Social Media is Fueling the Rise
I’m sure you’ve figured it out—social media, including Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and TikTok, has helped athletes and leagues showcase their talents. Athletes are not wasting any opportunities to showcase their brands, and everything is getting unprecedented attention.
Other than large broadcasters, smaller teams do have the means to sponsor live television and can use the Internet for great video storage. Fans also upload impressive shots from articles and supporters, which helps them post. Sepak Takraw—an exhilarating Southeast Asian kick volleyball game—gets global recognition.
An unachievable organic growth that we’ve observed for just a decade now.
Why It’s Worth Tuning In
Little do we know, many new sports await discovery along with the entire culture that precedes it. The players have a real connection with their fans, the community is wholesome, and who wouldn’t love to feel like they are part of a secret society?
Additionally, you’ll be able to experience something you never have before—the rules, strategies, and the level of thrill are unmatched in the big leagues. With new platforms, now is the best time to look beyond the significant leagues.
Final Thoughts
The addition of out-of-the-ordinary games makes well-known sports more appealing. Due to platforms like DAZN, YouTube, and several other online betting portals, lesser-known sports have gained a foothold in the mainstream.
If you are an experienced fan who watches Kabaddi highlights on your bus rides or a newcomer trying to break into the entertainment realm, there is something for you. The next time you come across yet another football update, do yourself a favor and check out the road less traveled. You never know, you might stumble upon a sport that you will love.
