Pro Kabaddi League SEASONS (PKL) All 10 Seasons PKL SEASONS Pro Kabaddi ALL SEASONS
Season One:
The inaugural season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2014 marked a monumental shift in the landscape of kabaddi, catapulting the traditional Indian sport into the realm of modern professional leagues. Conceived by Mashal Sports and Star India, PKL Season 1 aimed not only to popularize kabaddi but also to provide a lucrative platform for players to showcase their talents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the league’s first season:
League Format:
PKL Season 1 adopted a round-robin league format, wherein the eight participating franchise-based teams competed against each other twice during the league stage. The matches were held across various cities in India, with each team hosting a set of matches in their home city. This format ensured widespread engagement and allowed fans from different regions to witness the excitement firsthand.
Franchise-based Teams:
The inaugural season featured eight franchise-based teams, each representing different cities across India. These teams were:
- U Mumba
- Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Bengaluru Bulls
- Telugu Titans
- Patna Pirates
- Dabang Delhi
- Bengal Warriors
- Puneri Paltan
Each team was backed by prominent owners, including well-known personalities from the entertainment and business sectors, adding glamour and credibility to the league.
Key Players and Performances:
Season 1 showcased the talents of numerous kabaddi stalwarts, with players like Anup Kumar (U Mumba), Manjeet Chillar (Jaipur Pink Panthers), Rahul Chaudhari (Telugu Titans), and Rakesh Kumar (Patna Pirates) shining brightly. Anup Kumar, in particular, emerged as a standout performer with his strategic acumen and stellar raiding skills, leading U Mumba’s charge towards the title.
Culminating in the Finals:
The pinnacle of PKL Season 1 was reached with the much-anticipated finals held at the NSCI Stadium in Mumbai on August 31, 2014. In a thrilling showdown, U Mumba locked horns with Jaipur Pink Panthers for the championship title. The match witnessed intense exchanges and edge-of-the-seat moments, captivating audiences nationwide. Ultimately, U Mumba emerged victorious, defeating Jaipur Pink Panthers with a scoreline of 36-30, thereby etching their name in the annals of kabaddi history.
Impact and Legacy:
PKL Season 1 left an indelible mark on the Indian sporting landscape, sparking widespread interest and enthusiasm for kabaddi as a professional sport. The success of the inaugural season paved the way for subsequent editions of the league, which continued to scale new heights in terms of viewership, commercialization, and player development.
PKL not only revolutionized the perception of kabaddi but also provided a platform for aspiring players to pursue their dreams and make a mark on the national stage. In essence, PKL Season 1 laid the foundation for kabaddi’s transformation into a premier sporting spectacle, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans and stakeholders alike.
Summary:
The initial player signings and auction for the eight teams took place on May 20, 2014, in Mumbai. Rakesh Kumar, India’s national kabaddi captain, emerged as the highest-priced player, securing a deal worth ₹12.80 lakh with the Patna Pirates. Deepak Niwas Hooda of the Sports Authority of India was acquired by the Telugu Titans franchise for ₹12.60 lakh. The most expensive overseas player was Tae Deok Eom, who joined the Patna franchise for ₹7 lakh.
The season spanned from July 26, 2014, to August 31, 2014, featuring double round-robin matches, two semifinals, and final games. A total of 60 matches were scheduled, comprising 56 in the first round and 4 in the playoff stage. Eight teams participated in the inaugural edition, with the opening match between U Mumba and Jaipur Pink Panthers on July 26. The final, held in Mumbai on August 31, saw Jaipur Pink Panthers emerge victorious with a 35–24 win over U Mumba, claiming the inaugural Pro Kabaddi League title.
Season Second:
The second season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2015 built upon the success and momentum of its inaugural edition, further solidifying kabaddi’s position as a mainstream professional sport in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of PKL Season 2:
Expansion and Format:
Pro Kabaddi League PKL Season 2 expanded its reach by introducing two new teams, bringing the total count to ten franchise-based teams. The league retained its round-robin format, with each team playing against every other team twice during the league stage. Matches were held across multiple cities in India, with teams hosting matches in their respective home cities.
New Teams:
The two new teams added in Season 2 were:
- Punjab-based franchise: Representing Punjab’s rich kabaddi heritage, this team attracted a strong fanbase from the region.
- Bengal-based franchise: Hailing from West Bengal, this team aimed to tap into the state’s passion for sports and foster local talent.
The inclusion of these new teams added diversity and regional representation to the league, further enhancing its appeal.
Top Performers and Players:
Season 2 witnessed stellar performances from both seasoned veterans and emerging talents. Players like Anup Kumar (U Mumba), Manjeet Chillar (Bengaluru Bulls), Rahul Chaudhari (Telugu Titans), and Pardeep Narwal (Patna Pirates) continued to shine with their exceptional skills and contributions to their respective teams. The emergence of young talents like Pardeep Narwal showcased the league’s role in nurturing new stars and promoting talent development.
Finals and Championship Match:
The culmination of PKL Season 2 saw a highly anticipated finals match, held at a prestigious venue. The top-performing teams battled it out in a thrilling encounter to claim the championship title. The finals witnessed intense competition, strategic gameplay, and electrifying moments, captivating audiences across the nation. Ultimately, one team emerged victorious, etching their name in PKL history and solidifying their status as champions of Season 2.
Impact and Legacy:
PKL Season 2 further entrenched kabaddi’s position as a premier sporting event in India, attracting widespread attention, viewership, and commercial interest. The league’s expansion, addition of new teams, and continued focus on promoting talent contributed to its growing popularity and success. Season 2 built upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, setting new benchmarks for professionalism, competitiveness, and entertainment in kabaddi. The legacy of Pro Kabaddi League PKL Season 2 continues to inspire fans, players, and stakeholders, underscoring kabaddi’s remarkable journey from a traditional sport to a modern-day spectacle.
Summary:
The second season of Star Sports Pro Kabaddi took place from July 18, 2015, to August 23, 2015. During this period, a total of 60 matches were played, including two semifinals, a third-place play-off, and the final. The inaugural match on July 18 featured U Mumba against Jaipur Pink Panthers, while the championship clash on August 23 saw U Mumba emerge victorious against Bengaluru Bulls with a score of 36–30. U Mumba secured the top position in the league standings, followed by Bengaluru Bulls in second place and Telugu Titans in third.
Season Third:
Pro Kabaddi League Season 3, held in 2016, marked another significant milestone in the evolution of kabaddi as a mainstream professional sport in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the season:
Expansion and Format:
Season 3 saw the Pro Kabaddi League expand its reach with the addition of two new teams, bringing the total number of franchises to eight. The league continued with its successful format of a round-robin league followed by playoffs. Each team played against every other team twice during the league stage, leading to a total of 60 enthralling matches.
Participating Teams:
The eight teams that participated in Season 3 were:
- U Mumba
- Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Bengaluru Bulls
- Telugu Titans
- Patna Pirates
- Dabang Delhi
- Bengal Warriors
- Puneri Paltan
As in previous seasons, each team boasted a blend of seasoned kabaddi veterans and emerging talents, creating an exciting mix of experience and potential.
Key Players and Performances:
Season 3 witnessed stellar performances from several players who showcased their prowess on the kabaddi mat. Notable performers included players like Anup Kumar (U Mumba), Rahul Chaudhari (Telugu Titans), Pardeep Narwal (Patna Pirates), and Manjeet Chhillar (Puneri Paltan). These players mesmerized audiences with their agility, strength, and tactical acumen, contributing significantly to their respective teams’ success.
The Road to the Finals:
The journey to the finals was fraught with intense competition and dramatic moments. Teams battled fiercely in the league stage to secure a spot in the playoffs. The top four teams at the end of the league stage advanced to the semi-finals, where they faced off in knockout matches to earn a place in the much-anticipated final showdown.
Culminating in the Grand Finale:
The climax of Season 3 unfolded with the grand finale, which took place amidst much fanfare and excitement. The final match, held at a packed stadium, witnessed a captivating clash between two deserving contenders vying for the championship title. The electrifying atmosphere, coupled with the high stakes, set the stage for an unforgettable showdown.
Impact and Legacy:
Pro Kabaddi League Season 3 further solidified the league’s status as one of India’s premier sporting extravaganzas. It captivated audiences nationwide with its blend of athleticism, strategy, and sheer entertainment. The league’s success not only elevated the profile of kabaddi but also paved the way for greater commercialization, increased participation, and enhanced opportunities for players. Season 3 left an enduring legacy, inspiring a new generation of kabaddi enthusiasts and cementing the sport’s position on the global sporting map.
Summary:
The CEO of Star India, Sanjay Gupta, affirmed that Star Sports Pro Kabaddi aimed to expand its scope by organizing two editions per year, turning the 5-week event into a 10-week annual occurrence. The proposal involved conducting tournaments in January–February and June–July. Season 3 featured eight teams, with Patna Pirates emerging as the champions after defeating U Mumba by a 3-point margin in the final held in Delhi. Puneri Paltan secured the third position in this edition.
Season Fourth:
Pro Kabaddi League Season 4, held in 2016, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of kabaddi as a professional sport in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the season:
Expansion and Team Dynamics:
PKL Season 4 witnessed an expansion in the number of teams participating, with the addition of four new franchises, bringing the total count to 12 teams. This expansion not only broadened the geographical reach of the league but also intensified the competition among teams. Each team underwent rigorous player auctions and squad restructuring to assemble a formidable lineup capable of vying for the coveted title.
Format and Matches:
The format of PKL Season 4 followed a similar pattern to previous editions, with a round-robin league stage followed by playoffs. Teams faced each other twice during the league phase, playing a total of 22 league matches per team. The top teams from the league stage advanced to the playoffs, culminating in the grand finale to determine the champion.
Key Players and Performances:
Season 4 showcased the emergence of new stars alongside established names, with players like Pardeep Narwal (Patna Pirates), Rahul Chaudhari (Telugu Titans), and Manjeet Chhillar (Puneri Paltan) demonstrating their prowess on the kabaddi mat. Pardeep Narwal, in particular, had a standout season, showcasing his exceptional raiding skills and leading Patna Pirates to the forefront of contention.
Climax in the Finals:
The finals of PKL Season 4 captivated audiences with a thrilling showdown between two formidable teams. Patna Pirates, led by the dynamic Pardeep Narwal, squared off against the resolute Jaipur Pink Panthers, led by their seasoned campaigner, Jasvir Singh. In a closely contested encounter, Patna Pirates emerged triumphant, clinching the title with a display of tactical brilliance and nerve-wracking raids, thereby etching their name in PKL history.
Legacy and Impact:
PKL Season 4 left an indelible mark on the kabaddi landscape, further solidifying the league’s status as one of India’s premier sporting events. The expanded format, increased competitiveness, and electrifying performances contributed to the growing popularity of kabaddi among fans and stakeholders alike. Season 4’s success reaffirmed the league’s ability to captivate audiences and showcase the raw athleticism and skill inherent in kabaddi, laying the groundwork for future editions to continue pushing the boundaries of the sport.
Summary:
The fourth season occurred between June 25 and July 31, 2016, featuring the participation of eight existing teams. In the final, Patna Pirates emerged victorious against Jaipur Pink Panthers. Season 4 marked the inauguration of the inaugural Women’s Kabaddi Challenge (WKC), introducing three teams – Ice Divas, Fire Birds, and Storm Queens – competing for the first WKC championship. Patna Pirates secured their second Pro Kabaddi League title by defeating Jaipur Pink Panthers in the men’s final.
Season Fifth:
Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 5, held in 2017, marked another significant chapter in the evolution of kabaddi as a professional sport in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the season:
Expansion and Format:
PKL Season 5 witnessed a significant expansion, with four additional teams joining the fray, bringing the total number of participating teams to 12. The league maintained its round-robin format, where each team played against every other team twice during the league stage. The top teams then advanced to the playoffs, culminating in the grand finale.
New Teams:
The four new teams that debuted in Season 5 were:
- Haryana Steelers
- Gujarat Fortunegiants
- Tamil Thalaivas
- UP Yoddha
These new additions broadened the geographical footprint of the league and added fresh rivalries, further enhancing the competitive landscape.
Star Players and Performances:
Season 5 showcased the prowess of several star players, including Pardeep Narwal (Patna Pirates), Rahul Chaudhari (Telugu Titans), and Ajay Thakur (Tamil Thalaivas), among others. Pardeep Narwal emerged as a standout performer, captivating audiences with his explosive raiding skills and exceptional agility. His performances played a pivotal role in Patna Pirates’ campaign throughout the season.
Innovations and Fan Engagement:
PKL Season 5 introduced several innovations aimed at enhancing fan engagement and the overall viewing experience. The league leveraged technology to introduce features such as player statistics, real-time analytics, and interactive fan polls during matches. Additionally, the league organizers focused on grassroots initiatives, conducting talent hunts and kabaddi clinics to nurture young talent and promote the sport at the grassroots level.
Culmination in the Finals:
The season culminated in a thrilling finale held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai. The final clash witnessed a showdown between Gujarat Fortunegiants and Patna Pirates, two teams that had displayed exceptional skill and resilience throughout the season. In a closely contested battle, Patna Pirates emerged victorious, securing their third consecutive PKL title with a resounding victory.
Impact and Legacy:
PKL Season 5 further solidified the league’s status as one of India’s premier sporting events, attracting widespread attention and garnering a dedicated fan following. The expansion of the league to include new teams and the introduction of innovative initiatives underscored the league’s commitment to growth and development. Moreover, Season 5 showcased the immense talent pool present in Indian kabaddi and highlighted the sport’s potential to captivate audiences both domestically and internationally. Overall, PKL Season 5 left a lasting legacy, setting the stage for future seasons and cementing kabaddi’s position as a mainstream sport in India.
Summary:
The 2017 Pro Kabaddi League, in its fifth edition, featured 12 teams, including new ones from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. The auctions saw significant spending, with over 400 players involved. The season, starting in July, spanned 13 weeks, making it the most extensive in Indian sports history in terms of coverage and duration. The top auction pick was Nitin Tomar, acquired by Uttar Pradesh for ₹93 lakh. The tournament included a children’s event called KBD Juniors. Patna Pirates emerged as champions, defeating Gujarat Fortune Giants 55–38 in the final. Pardeep Narwal, with 19 raid points, was named Man of the Tournament. The award ceremony was hosted by Pooja Bhamrah.
Season Sixth:
Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 6, which took place in 2018, marked another milestone in the evolution of kabaddi as a mainstream sport in India. Here’s an in-depth overview of the season:
Expanded Format:
PKL Season 6 witnessed a significant expansion, with a total of 12 teams participating in the league. This expansion reflected the growing popularity and commercial viability of kabaddi as a spectator sport. The increased number of teams also led to a more extensive fixture list, providing fans with a greater number of matches to enjoy.
New Teams:
Four new teams were introduced in Season 6, adding to the diversity and competitiveness of the league. These teams were:
- Gujarat Fortune Giants
- Tamil Thalaivas
- UP Yoddha
- Haryana Steelers
The addition of these teams brought kabaddi to new regions within India, further broadening the sport’s appeal and fan base.
Retention Policy:
In a strategic move to maintain continuity and strengthen team compositions, PKL introduced a player retention policy for Season 6. This policy allowed teams to retain a select number of players from their previous squads, ensuring a balance of experience and fresh talent in each team.
Star Players and Performances:
Season 6 featured standout performances from several kabaddi superstars, including:
- Pardeep Narwal (Patna Pirates): Known for his explosive raiding skills, Narwal continued to be a dominant force in Season 6, delighting fans with his agility and scoring prowess.
- Rahul Chaudhari (Telugu Titans): Chaudhari’s flair and finesse on the mat made him a fan favorite, as he showcased his versatility as both a raider and a defender.
- Siddharth Desai (U Mumba): Making his PKL debut, Desai made an immediate impact with his powerful raids and ability to single-handedly turn the tide of matches.
These players, along with many others, captivated audiences with their athleticism and game-changing performances throughout the season.
Finals and Champions:
The culmination of PKL Season 6 was a fitting finale held at the NSCI Dome in Mumbai. After an intense playoff phase, Bengaluru Bulls emerged as the champions, defeating Gujarat Fortune Giants in a thrilling final match. Led by captain Rohit Kumar and bolstered by stellar performances from their squad, Bengaluru Bulls showcased resilience and determination to claim the coveted title.
Legacy and Impact:
PKL Season 6 further solidified kabaddi’s status as one of India’s premier sporting leagues. The league’s continued growth and success underscored the widespread appeal of kabaddi, transcending regional boundaries and capturing the imagination of fans across the country. With each season, PKL continued to elevate the profile of kabaddi, attracting top talent, corporate sponsors, and a loyal fan base, thereby cementing its place in the annals of Indian sports history.
Summary:
The 2018 Pro Kabaddi League featured 12 teams, with Monu Goyat becoming the highest-paid player at ₹1.51 crores for Haryana Steelers. Fazel Atrachali was the priciest foreign player, securing a ₹1 crore deal with U Mumba. In the final, Bengaluru Bulls defeated Gujarat Fortune Giants 38–33, with Pawan Kumar Sehrawat’s outstanding 22 raid points earning him the Man of the Tournament title. Bengaluru Bulls’ coach, Randhir Singh, celebrated the team’s victory, while Gujarat Fortune Giants’ coach, Manpreet Singh, expressed disappointment at losing two consecutive finals.
Season Seventh:
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 7, held in 2019, showcased the continued growth and popularity of kabaddi as a premier sporting event in India. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the season:
League Format and Structure:
PKL Season 7 featured a total of 12 teams competing against each other in a round-robin league format. The teams were divided into two zones: Zone A and Zone B, with six teams in each zone. Each team played a set of matches against the other teams in their respective zones, followed by inter-zone matches and playoffs.
Expansion and New Teams:
Season 7 marked the expansion of the league with the addition of four new teams, bringing the total number of participating teams to 12. The new entrants included teams representing regions such as Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and UP, further diversifying the league’s geographical reach and fan base.
Each team boasted a mix of seasoned kabaddi veterans and emerging talents, adding depth and competitiveness to the league.
Key Players and Performances:
Season 7 witnessed standout performances from several players, including Siddharth Desai (Telugu Titans), Pawan Sehrawat (Bengaluru Bulls), and Naveen Kumar (Dabang Delhi K.C.). These players showcased exceptional raiding skills and defensive prowess, earning accolades and admiration from fans and experts alike.
Finals and Champion:
The culmination of PKL Season 7 saw the top teams battle it out in the playoffs for a spot in the finals. In a thrilling title clash, Bengal Warriors faced Dabang Delhi K.C. in a showdown of skill and strategy. The finals, held at the EKA Arena by TransStadia in Ahmedabad, witnessed a fiercely contested match, with Bengal Warriors emerging victorious with a scoreline of 39-34. Led by captain Maninder Singh and guided by the astute coaching of BC Ramesh, Bengal Warriors clinched their maiden PKL title, capping off a memorable season with a remarkable triumph.
Impact and Legacy:
PKL Season 7 further solidified kabaddi’s status as a mainstream sport in India, attracting widespread attention and engagement from fans across the country. The league’s success not only bolstered the popularity of kabaddi but also provided a platform for players to showcase their talent and pursue professional careers in the sport. Additionally, PKL Season 7 continued to drive commercial interest and investment, with sponsors and broadcasters vying for a stake in the thriving kabaddi ecosystem. Overall, Season 7 left an enduring legacy, setting the stage for future editions of the Pro Kabaddi League to build upon its success and elevate the sport to even greater heights.
Summary:
The 2019 Pro Kabaddi League featured 12 teams with a total spending of over 50 crores in auctions. Siddharth Sirish Desai and Mohammad Esmaeil Nabibakhsh were the top buys. The season, termed the ‘Most Toughest Season,’ removed the zonal system, and teams played against each other twice. The top 6 teams advanced to the playoffs, with Dabang Delhi and Bengal Warriors reaching the final. Bengal Warriors secured their first title by defeating Dabang Delhi 39–34. The season saw significant records, including Pardeep Narwal reaching 1000 points, Naveen Kumar achieving 21 consecutive Super 10s, and Pawan Sehrawat setting a record with 39 individual points in a match. Three raiders crossed the 300-raid points mark, and Neeraj Kumar of Patna Pirates recorded the highest tackle points (11) in a match, equaling Mohit Chillar’s record.
Season Eight:
PKL Season 8 introduced a new format, injecting fresh excitement into the tournament. The league stage saw the twelve participating teams battle it out in a round-robin format, facing off against each other twice. This format ensured a comprehensive test of each team’s capabilities and provided ample opportunities for redemption.
Participating Teams:
The eighth season of PKL featured twelve teams representing various cities across India. These teams comprised a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, creating a dynamic and competitive environment.
Impact and Legacy:
PKL Season 8 left an indelible mark on the Indian sporting landscape, captivating fans with its thrilling action and compelling narratives. The league’s continued success underscores the growing popularity of kabaddi as a mainstream sport in India. PKL has not only provided a platform for players to showcase their talents but has also inspired a new generation of kabaddi enthusiasts. As PKL continues to evolve and expand its reach, its legacy as a pioneering force in Indian sports remains unparalleled.
Summary:
The 2021–22 Pro Kabaddi League, in its eighth season, adopted a single-venue format at Sheraton Grand Hotel in Whitefield, Bangalore, departing from the traditional caravan format. Dabang Delhi emerged victorious, claiming their first PKL title by defeating Patna Pirates in an exciting final. Naveen Kumar of Delhi made history with back-to-back MVP awards, while Bengaluru’s Pawan Sehrawat retained the best raider title for the second consecutive season. Mohammadreza Chiyaneh from Patna Pirates secured the best defender award for the second time, setting a new PKL record. Additionally, Mohit Goyat from Pune was named the best new young player.
Season Nineth:
The ninth season of the Pro Kabaddi League commenced on October 7, 2022, following an auction held on August 5-6, 2022. Notably, Pavan Kumar Sehrawat secured the highest bid of Rs 2.26 crore, marking a record for the PKL, as he joined the Tamil Thalaivas. The season featured three legs held at different venues: Kanteerava Indoor Stadium, Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, and Gachibowli Indoor Stadium. In the final, Jaipur Pink Panthers emerged victorious, defeating Puneri Paltan with a score of 33-29. This win made them the second team, after Patna Pirates, to clinch more than one title in the Pro Kabaddi League.
Season Tenth:
The tenth edition of the Pro Kabaddi League for the 2023 season witnessed a rescheduled auction, originally set for September 8 and 9 but later moved to October 9 and 10 due to the Asian Games. Adopting the caravan format, all 12 teams will travel to compete in their respective home cities. Pawan Sehrawat emerged as a notable participant, securing a top spot in the auction as the Telugu Titans acquired him for ₹2.60 Cr. The schedule for the season, spanning from December 2, 2023, to February 2024, has been publicly revealed. In the opening match, the Telugu Titans faced off against the Gujrat Giants, with the latter emerging victorious.