New FBM Rule Introduced as Pro Kabaddi League’s Biggest Stars Hit the Auction Block in Mumbai
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 Player Auction is set to be a thrilling affair as top Indian and international kabaddi stars go under the hammer in Mumbai on May 31 and June 1, 2025. With teams vying to build their strongest squads, this year’s auction promises to be a blockbuster event.
Star-Studded Player Pool
Over 500 athletes, including elite Indian players like Pawan Sehrawat, Arjun Deshwal, and Devank Dalal, are up for bidding. International powerhouses like Fazel Atrachali and Mohammadreza Shadloui also add to the star power of the auction. Legendary names such as Maninder Singh and Pardeep Narwal are making their return, while Naveen Kumar enters the auction for the first time after a successful run with Dabang Delhi K.C.
Champion Players Available
This season’s auction is unique as all champion players from Seasons 1 to 11 are up for grabs, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. Franchises now have the opportunity to sign players who have been instrumental in defining PKL’s biggest moments.
Revised FBM Rule
One of the major updates for Season 12 is the revised Final Bid Match (FBM) rule. Teams can now retain a player for either one or two seasons when exercising their FBM, allowing for longer-term squad building and greater team continuity.
FBM Process
When a player from Season 11 receives the highest bid, their previous team has the option to exercise their FBM by raising either the one-season or two-season card. The team must act quickly, as the first card raised will be considered final. If the FBM is not exercised, the player goes to the highest bidder.
Remaining Slots and Salary Purse
83 players have been retained by the 12 PKL franchises, leaving 217 slots to be filled during the auction. Each team can have a squad size of 18 to 25 players, with varying salary purses available for bidding.
Player Categories and Base Prices
Players are categorized into four groups, each further divided into Raiders, Defenders, and All-Rounders. Franchises can strategically shape their squads based on these categories.
Where to Watch
The auction proceedings will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar on May 31 from 7 PM onwards. Fans can also follow updates on the Pro Kabaddi Official App and social media channels for the latest news on the auction.
Don’t miss out on the excitement as kabaddi’s biggest stars go head-to-head in the Season 12 Player Auction, shaping the future of the sport!
Evolution of Kabaddi in India
Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years, particularly with the inception of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). The league has provided a platform for both Indian and international players to showcase their skills, leading to a surge in the sport’s popularity. The introduction of modern rules and formats has made kabaddi more appealing to a global audience, attracting fans from diverse backgrounds.
Impact of PKL on Kabaddi Players
The Pro Kabaddi League has not only elevated the status of kabaddi players but also provided them with lucrative opportunities to earn a living through the sport. Talented athletes like Pawan Sehrawat, Arjun Deshwal, and Fazel Atrachali have become household names, inspiring a new generation of kabaddi enthusiasts. The league’s success has also encouraged young players to pursue a career in kabaddi, with dreams of representing top franchises and competing on a grand stage.
Rise of International Kabaddi Talent
With international players like Mohammadreza Shadloui making a mark in the PKL, the league has become a melting pot of kabaddi talent from around the world. The inclusion of foreign players has not only enhanced the competitive edge of the sport but also fostered cultural exchange and camaraderie among athletes. This diverse blend of talent has contributed to the global appeal of kabaddi, transforming it into a truly international sport.
Strategic Squad Building in PKL
As teams gear up for the Season 12 Player Auction, strategic squad building will play a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape of the league. Franchises will need to carefully analyze player categories, base prices, and team dynamics to create a well-balanced roster capable of challenging for the title. The revised FBM rule adds an intriguing element to the auction process, allowing teams to secure key players for multiple seasons and establish a sense of continuity within their squads.
Enhanced Fan Engagement
The Pro Kabaddi League has revolutionized the way fans engage with the sport, offering live broadcasts, online streaming, and interactive platforms for a truly immersive experience. By providing access to in-depth player statistics, match analysis, and behind-the-scenes content, the league has created a loyal fan base that eagerly anticipates each season’s auctions, matches, and thrilling moments on the kabaddi mat.
Future Outlook for Kabaddi
As the Pro Kabaddi League continues to grow in popularity and stature, the future of kabaddi looks bright and promising. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents set to grace the Season 12 Player Auction, fans can expect a riveting display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. The evolution of kabaddi from a traditional pastime to a modern, high-octane sport signifies the enduring appeal and resilience of this ancient game in the contemporary sporting landscape.
Witness the transformation of kabaddi and the excitement of the Pro Kabaddi League as the biggest stars converge at the Season 12 Player Auction, shaping the destiny of the sport for years to come!