Know About Pro Kabaddi League
The Pro Kabaddi League is a professional men's kabaddi league in India, launched in 2014. PKL has been gaining rapid traction and has been considered the second most-watched sports league after the Indian Premier League. Success can be seen in its franchise-based model, dynamic presentation, and resurgence in kabaddi.
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League Structure and Format
The PKL features 12 teams representing various Indian cities. The competition follows a double round-robin format, where each team plays against every other team twice during the league phase. The top teams then advance to the playoffs, culminating in a final to determine the champion. Over the years, the league has expanded and adapted, introducing new teams and modifying its format to enhance competitiveness and viewer engagement.
Recent Seasons and Champions
• Season 10 (2023-24): Puneri Paltan won their first PKL title by defeat in the closely contested final of Haryana Steelers.
• Season 11 (2024): Haryana Steelers won their first championship, and in the final conducted at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, in Pune, they defeated Patna Pirates 32-23. (en.wikipedia.org)
Notable Players and Records
The PKL has seen excellent talent, as it has seen players reach phenomenal records:
•Pardeep Narwal: Most raid points in PKL history with over 1,800 points.
•Fazel Atrachali: Highest tackle points by a defender with 524.
These players have become household names and inspired a new generation of kabaddi enthusiasts.
Global Expansion and Exhibitions
The PKL also held an exhibition event known as the "Melbourne Raid" in John Cain Arena in Melbourne, Australia, on December 28, 2024. The exhibition games were between PKL All-Star teams. Sport was introduced before the international people. Australian sportspersons, including former AFL players participated, which gave a notion of increasing popularity and interest in playing the game at the global level.
Audience and Reach
The PKL has always recorded great viewership. The first season attracted 435 million viewers, making it the second most-watched sport in India after cricket. Subsequent seasons have maintained strong viewership, reflecting the league's sustained popularity.
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Future Prospects
PKL is becoming more prosperous and is expanding its reach and influence. Proper plans are laid to do the same. International collaboration and adding exhibition matches in new regions will contribute a lot to elevate the status of kabaddi in the global sporting platform.