The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is making a comeback with its eleventh season, starting in Hyderabad on October 18 and running through to November 9. This year, the matches will be held in three different cities, with the competition moving from Hyderabad to Noida and Pune, with all the excitement kicking off at the GMCB Indoor Stadium.
Opening Match Between Telugu Titans and Bengaluru Bulls
The much-anticipated season opener will feature an electrifying face-off between the Telugu Titans and Bengaluru Bulls at Hyderabad’s GMCB Indoor Stadium, Gachibowli. With both teams known for their fierce competitiveness, fans can expect a thrilling battle to launch the season.
Grand Opening Ceremony in Hyderabad
Before the action commenced, a grand opening event took place at the Hyatt Place in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. The ceremony was attended by Anupam Goswami, Commissioner of the PKL and Head of Sports Leagues at Mashal Sports, along with the captains from all 12 competing teams. Notable attendees included Telugu Titans’ captain Pawan Sehrawat and Bengaluru Bulls’ captain Pardeep Narwal.
One of the unique aspects of the launch event was a particular exhibition match featuring the team captains along with popular social media influencers. This collaboration with Meta introduced a modern twist to the traditional sport, with influencers such as the Big Nerds, Hardik Banga, Sidhant Sarfare, and Ashish Singh participating.
PKL’s Growth and Future Vision
Reflecting on the league’s development over the past decade, Anupam Goswami shared insights into the PKL’s success. He mentioned that the first ten years had been an incredible journey, but the focus is now on the future. The league’s aim is to build on previous accomplishments, particularly the pride instilled in players as professional kabaddi athletes. Looking ahead, the PKL seeks to expand globally, with increasing international interest in the sport. Goswami also emphasized that fans remain at the core of the league’s focus as it evolves.
Captains Share Their Excitement
Pawan Sehrawat, captain of the Telugu Titans, expressed his excitement about playing the first match of the season on home turf. “Playing in Hyderabad is always special because of the incredible support from our fans. The team is well-prepared, and we’re looking forward to making an impact right from the start,” he said.
Bengaluru Bulls’ captain, Pardeep Narwal, who has returned to the team where his PKL journey began, also shared his thoughts. “Season 11 is going to be huge for us. We’ve had a strong pre-season, and the team is well-balanced. We’re eager to set the tone with a strong performance in the opener,” he remarked.
Record-breaking auctions and Major Signings
The lead-up to this season saw some historic moments during the PKL auction in Mumbai, where eight players were signed for over INR 1 crore each. Fans can also look forward to a thrilling second match on the opening night between U Mumba and Dabang Delhi K.C. U Mumba’s Sunil Kumar, now the highest-paid Indian defender in PKL history at INR 1.015 crore, will take on Delhi’s star raider, Naveen Kumar, setting the stage for an action-packed season.
Revival of the Three-City Format
This season marks the return of the three-city format. After the opening phase in Hyderabad, the tournament will move to Noida from November 10 to December 1, followed by the final leg at Pune’s Badminton Hall in the Balewadi Sports Complex from December 3 to December 24.
Fan-Centric Innovations for Season 11
As the PKL enters its eleventh season, the league is focusing heavily on enhancing the fan experience. This includes offering superfans unique opportunities, both online and in stadiums. With a greater emphasis on digital engagement and memorable experiences at live events, the league aims to bring fans even closer to the action. The season’s initiatives will continue to put fans at the forefront, ensuring they feel deeply connected to the game and its evolution.
The eleventh season promises to deliver exciting moments for both players and spectators, setting the stage for more memorable events as the PKL continues to expand and innovate.
Click here to learn more about the latest updates.
