Mumbai, Aug 3: As Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 edges closer to kick-off, excitement is building not just among fans but also former and current players who have seen the league’s transformation over the years.
One such voice is that of Rishank Devadiga, former India raider and now a JioStar PKL expert, who believes that the league has given players more than just sporting recognition.
“Kabaddi Players Now Have Name, Fame & Stability”
“PKL has brought stability to the lives of young players. Coaches like BC Ramesh and Manpreet Singh are betting big on youth, and the game has become faster and more aggressive. Players like Devank Dalal, who was impressive last season, are being rewarded. PKL has provided financial securitymost Kabaddi players come from middle-class families, and now they’re getting name, fame, and fan support. This is all thanks to PKL and broadcasters like JioStar who are building the league’s visibility,” said Devadiga, while speaking exclusively at the PKL pre-season Media Day on JioStar.
Rishank Devadiga’s words reflect the sentiment of a generation of players who credit the league for elevating their lifestyles and dreams. From household incomes to fan recognition, kabaddi’s leap into mainstream consciousness has been swift and powerful.
“Every Opener is Like a Final”
“In PKL, the thrill begins from the first match. Every team treats the opener like a final. On Day 1, four teams will clashincluding the Southern Derby, which will be a treat to watch. I’m very excited, and I know the fans will be too,” Devadiga added further.
Looking ahead to the new season, Rishank believes fans can expect high-octane matches from Day 1. He identified Haryana Steelers, Puneri Paltan and Tamil Thalaivas as his top three teams to watch out for in Season 12.
Raiders to Reclaim Spotlight
“Last season saw defence dominancelike Shadloui’s brilliancebut this year, raiders like Devank and Ashu Malik will make headlines. It’s time for the raiders to reclaim the spotlight.”
Rishank, who was once one of India’s most prolific raiders, hopes to see attacking players drive narratives this season. He believes the young crop of raiders, shaped through the New Young Players (NYP) program, is ready to take centre stage.
Ajay Thakur: “PKL Has Changed Lives”
Former Indian captain and current Puneri Paltan head coach, Ajay Thakur, while speaking exclusively at the PKL pre-season Media Day on JioStar, echoed similar sentiments about PKL’s positive impact on players and their families.
“Kabaddi used to be an underrated sport. Today, players have fan clubs, they’re recognised in public, and most importantly, their families are proud and financially secure. That’s the real legacy of PKL.”
Ajay also shared that his coaching philosophy is based on building unity and mutual respect in the team, knowing that talent alone isn’t enough for championship success.
Catch the Action from August 29
The 12th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League starts on August 29. With passionate coaches like BC Ramesh, Manpreet Singh, and Ajay Thakur in charge of top teams, and pundits like Rishank Devadiga providing deep insights, fans are in for a rollercoaster ride.