Global Pravasi Kabaddi League Season 2 Introduces Innovative Player Draft System

The Global Pravasi Kabaddi League (GPKL) is gearing up for its second season with an innovative player draft system designed to create balanced teams. This season will feature both male and female athletes from various countries, emphasizing the league's commitment to inclusivity and international collaboration. Each franchise will have a men's and women's team, ensuring a diverse mix of domestic and international talent. The draft process will evaluate players on various skills before they are selected by franchises, aiming to enhance the competitive nature of the league. GPKL continues to position itself as a key player in promoting kabaddi on a global scale.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 1, 2026, 15:36 IST

Exciting Developments for GPKL Season 2

The Global Pravasi Kabaddi League (GPKL) has officially announced its second season, which will include a new player draft system following the confirmation of participation from international athletes across Europe, Africa, and Asia. This structured framework aims to create balanced and competitive teams.

As per the announcement, the draft system is crafted to blend domestic and international talent while promoting the inclusion of both male and female athletes within a unified league structure. Each franchise will field two teams—one for men and one for women—highlighting the league's dedication to the simultaneous growth of both formats of kabaddi. Furthermore, every team will consist of a mix of domestic and international players, embodying the league's mission to merge India's kabaddi prowess with global participation.

Draft Mechanism and Player Selection Process

Building on its evolution from the inaugural season as GIPKL, the draft framework for Season 2 signifies a significant advancement in forming professionally organized teams that ensure competitive balance and international collaboration. Players will undergo structured trials, where they will be assessed on technical skills, fitness levels, tactical understanding, and adaptability to team dynamics before being included in a central draft pool. Franchise teams will then select players from this pool through a guided draft process, which is anticipated to be led by coaches and aligned with team strategies.

Diverse International Participation

The upcoming season is set to showcase male and female athletes from various countries, including England, the Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Germany, Tanzania, Kenya, Cameroon, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, alongside talented domestic players from India's prominent kabaddi regions.

The Vision Behind 'Pravasi'

Discussing the significance of the Pravasi concept, HIPSA President Kanthi D Suresh stated, "The Pravasi aspect is fundamental to GPKL's vision. Each international player not only competes in the league but also serves as an ambassador for the sport upon returning to their home country. This fosters a natural pathway for kabaddi to expand globally and engage new audiences worldwide."

By allowing franchises to construct their teams through a structured integration of domestic and international players, GPKL is reinforcing its position as a professionally managed platform dedicated to promoting kabaddi on a global scale.