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Key Points

Former Indian kabaddi star Rishank Devadiga highlights PKL's transformative impact on players' lives ahead of season 12. He credits the league for bringing financial stability and recognition to young athletes from middle-class backgrounds. Devadiga predicts an exciting season with raiders reclaiming spotlight after defensive dominance last year. The tournament kicks off August 29 with defending champions Haryana Steelers beginning their title defense.

Key Points: Ex-India Star Devadiga Says PKL Transformed Kabaddi Players' Lives

  • PKL provides financial security for middle-class kabaddi players
  • Coaches Ramesh and Manpreet backing youth talent
  • Raiders like Devank set to dominate season 12
  • Defending champs Haryana Steelers face Bengal Warriorz in opener
2 min read

Pro Kabaddi League has brought stability to lives of young players...: Ex-Indian Asian Games medalist player Devadiga

Asian Games medalist Rishank Devadiga reveals how PKL brought financial stability and fame to young kabaddi talents ahead of season 12.

"PKL has brought stability to the lives of young players - Rishank Devadiga"

Mumbai, July 31

Ahead of the 12th season of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), ex-Indian kabaddi player Rishank Devadiga highlighted how the tournament has brought "stability" to the lives of young players and made the game faster and more aggressive.

The Asian Games medalist, now a JioStar expert ahead of the PKL season 12, spoke during a media interaction featuring team coaches BC Ramesh (Bengaluru Bulls), Manpreet Singh (Haryana Steelers).

Speaking exclusively at the PKL pre-season media day, Devadiga commented on PKL's evolution, "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 security, most 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," he added.

Devadiga said that during the PKL, the "thrill begins from the first match". The first day of action during season 12, August 29, will witness two matches, Telugu Titans versus Tamil Thalaivas and Bengaluru Bulls versus Puneri Paltan, with the latter being a clash of one-time champions.

"Every team treats the opener like a final. On Day 1, four teams will clash, including the Southern Derby, which will be a treat to watch. I am very excited, and I know the fans will be too. It is hard to pick one top team. I'd name three: Haryana Steelers, who played well and retained strong defenders; Puneri Paltan, with key additions like Sachin; and Tamil Thalaivas, who also look well-settled. Last season saw defence dominance, like Shadloui's brilliance, but this year, raiders like Devank and Ashu Malik will make headlines. It is time for the raiders to reclaim the spotlight," Devadiga added.

The PKL 2025 edition will witness 12 teams competing across four cities, Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai and Delhi, with the competition returning to Vizag for the first time since 2018. Defending champions Haryana Steelers will kickstart their title defence on August 31 against Bengal Warriorz.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
As someone from Haryana, I've seen how PKL has inspired thousands of young players in our state. The Steelers have become local heroes! But I wish the league would expand to more cities - why only 4 venues this season? More fans deserve to watch live matches.
A
Aman W
While PKL is great, we shouldn't forget traditional kabaddi tournaments. The league focuses only on the modern style. Many village players who excel in classic kabaddi don't get opportunities. There should be a balance between both formats.
P
Priya S
The Southern Derby between Titans and Thalaivas is going to be 🔥! Last season's matches were so intense. PKL has made kabaddi cool again - my college friends who never watched sports are now die-hard fans. The production quality is top-notch!
V
Vikram M
Good analysis by Devadiga. The shift from defense to raiders will make this season more exciting. But I'm concerned about injuries - the game has become so fast that players are getting hurt more often. The league should invest better in sports medicine.
K
Kavya N
My brother plays kabaddi at district level and PKL is his dream! The league has created clear career paths for athletes. But selection should be more transparent - sometimes politics affects team choices. Still, it's the best thing to happen to Indian sports after cricket.

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