PKL Season 12 Player Auction Sees Record Number of Crorepatis
Setting a new benchmark for the Pro Kabaddi League Player Auction, the recently concluded event saw a doubling of the number of crorepatis from the previous season. Season 11’s Most Valuable Player, Mohammadreza Shadloui, made history by becoming the first player to be snapped up for over INR 2 Crores three times in PKL history. The Gujarat Giants secured Shadloui for a whopping INR 2.23 Crores, kicking off a series of high-value signings.
Top Signings and New Records
Devank Dalal, the Best Raider in PKL 11, joined the 2 Crore club by signing with Bengal Warriorz for INR 2.205 Crores, making him one of the top five most expensive players in PKL history. Day 1 of the auction witnessed a total of 10 players crossing the INR 1 Crore mark, setting a new record for the league.
The introduction of the Final Bid Match (FBM) rule added an exciting twist to the auction, allowing teams to buy back released players by matching the final bid price for one or two seasons. Dabang Delhi K.C. utilized this rule to bring back star raider Ashu Malik for INR 1.90 Crores for the next two seasons.
Category A and B Highlights
Arjun Deshwal, signed by Tamil Thalaivas for INR 1.405 Crores, and Yogesh Dahiya, joining Bengaluru Bulls for INR 1.125 Crores, were among the top bids in Category A. Category B also saw some impressive signings, with Ankit Jaglan rejoining Patna Pirates for INR 1.573 Crore and Naveen Kumar becoming the second-most expensive player in the category after being paid INR 1.20 Crores by Haryana Steelers.
Other notable signings included Guman Singh, who secured a spot with UP Yoddhas for INR 1.073 Crores, and Sachin Tanwar and Nitin Kumar, who were signed by Puneri Paltan and Jaipur Pink Panthers for INR 1.058 Crores and INR 1.002 Crores respectively.
League Commissioner’s Statement
Mr. Anupam Goswami, Business Head and League Commissioner of Mashal Sports, expressed his excitement about the record-breaking auction, highlighting the growth in player value and the league’s evolution over the past decade. He also emphasized the significance of the FBM rule in building continuity within squads.
Looking ahead to Day 2 of the auction, fans can expect more thrilling signings as franchisees continue to build their squads for the upcoming PKL Season 12. Stay updated with all the latest news and live updates on the Pro Kabaddi League website, official app, and social media channels.
Emerging Talent and Rising Stars
While seasoned players commanded high prices during the PKL Season 12 auction, there was also a significant focus on emerging talent and rising stars in the kabaddi world. Young players like Pawan Sehrawat, who had a breakout season with Bengaluru Bulls in PKL 11, garnered attention from multiple teams. Despite being a Category B player, Sehrawat’s exceptional raiding skills saw him being bid for a substantial amount, showcasing the growing recognition of promising newcomers in the league.
Another player who caught the eye of franchise owners was Nitesh Kumar, a talented defender known for his agility and tactical acumen. Kumar’s consistent performance for UP Yoddhas in previous seasons made him a sought-after prospect during the auction. His signing for a considerable sum highlighted the value placed on defensive prowess in the fast-paced sport of kabaddi.
Strategic Team Building and Franchise Dynamics
As teams strategized and made crucial decisions during the auction, the dynamics of each franchise came into play. Some teams opted for a blend of experience and youth, aiming to create a balanced roster capable of competing at the highest level. Others focused on strengthening specific areas, such as raiding or defense, to address weaknesses from previous seasons.
The auction process not only highlighted the individual player values but also shed light on the overall team-building strategies employed by different franchises. The competition for top players showcased the intense rivalry between teams and the determination to assemble a formidable squad capable of challenging for the PKL title.
Impact of Global Recognition and Kabaddi Leagues
With the Pro Kabaddi League gaining international recognition and attracting a global audience, the value of players has soared in recent years. The influx of international players, especially from countries like Iran and South Korea, has added a new dimension to the league, bringing diverse playing styles and techniques to the forefront.
The success of kabaddi leagues in countries like India has also paved the way for the development of similar tournaments worldwide, further elevating the sport’s status on the global stage. As the popularity of kabaddi continues to grow, both players and teams are reaping the rewards of increased exposure and opportunities for showcasing their talent on a larger platform.
Future Prospects and Excitement for PKL Season 12
As the dust settles on the PKL Season 12 auction and teams finalize their squads, anticipation is high for the upcoming season. Fans eagerly await the thrilling matchups, intense rivalries, and jaw-dropping performances that have come to define the Pro Kabaddi League. With a record number of crorepatis and a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, the stage is set for a fiercely competitive and captivating season of kabaddi.
Stay tuned for more updates, analysis, and exclusive insights as the countdown to PKL Season 12 begins. The kabaddi fever is about to grip the nation once again, promising an exhilarating journey through the realm of one of India’s most beloved sports.
