Kabaddi Champions League Season 2 Set to Elevate Young Talent in Haryana

Exciting Developments for Kabaddi Champions League

New Delhi, September 14: Dronacharya Awardee coach KK Hooda and kabaddi athlete Rajesh Narwal have expressed their support for the upcoming second season of the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), emphasizing its vital role in nurturing young kabaddi talent in Haryana.

On Monday, the KCL officially unveiled its second season, promising an enhanced and more competitive experience for fans and players alike. Following the success of its inaugural season, the league has introduced two new franchises: the Jind Jaguars and the Kurukshetra Knights. This expansion aims to bolster the league's franchise network and provide a broader platform for emerging kabaddi players.

During the announcement event for KCL season 2, coach KK Hooda remarked that the league aspires to build on the achievements of its first season and establish itself as a premier state-level kabaddi league.

“As we launch season 2, I can’t claim it’s the largest league in India, but it’s poised to be the finest state-level league. The dedication from our owners, franchise members, ambassadors, and league officials is commendable. We hope this season will significantly enhance our reach,” he stated.

Hooda also highlighted the importance of providing junior players with opportunities to compete at elevated levels, asserting that the second season will serve as a platform for them to demonstrate their skills.

“In KCL season 2, junior players will have their chance to shine. With the commitment shown by our ambassadors and league organizers, I believe this league has a bright future ahead,” he added.

KCL brand ambassador Rajesh Narwal emphasized Haryana's deep-rooted connection with kabaddi, noting that the addition of two new teams will further enhance opportunities for young athletes in the region.

“When the inaugural season of the Kabaddi Champions League was held, there were eight teams. Now, with the addition of two more teams, it reflects Haryana's strong passion for kabaddi. This league serves as an excellent platform for aspiring players, inspiring the youth to pursue their dreams. The Kabaddi Champions League is recognized as Haryana's premier state league, and we eagerly anticipate its second season,” he remarked.

Significantly, the KCL has reached a remarkable milestone, with nine out of the twelve players selected for the Indian team at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan having emerged from the KCL ecosystem, underscoring the league's growing influence in Indian kabaddi.

Players from KCL representing India include Sunil Malik from Karnal Kings, Ayan Lauchab from Sonipat Stars, Devank Dalal from Bhiwani Bulls, Ashu Malik from Hisar Heroes, Rahul Setpal from Gurugram Gurus, Jaideep Dahiya from Faridabad Fighters, and Ankit Jaglan from Panipat Panthers.

“I want to extend my congratulations to the Indian Kabaddi team heading to the Asian Games. I sincerely hope they bring home a gold medal for our country. Out of the twelve-player squad, nine are from the Kabaddi Champions League. That’s a significant achievement,” he expressed.

Sanchit Garg, owner of the Kurukshetra Knights, shared his enthusiasm for the KCL after being inspired by a friend who plays for the Sonipat Stars. He expressed his desire to own a team when a new franchise opportunity arose, choosing the name Kurukshetra Knights to honor his father's ancestral roots.

“I closely followed season 1, encouraged by a friend who plays for the Sonipat Stars. After attending a match, I was motivated to invest in a team if a new franchise was introduced. The name Kurukshetra holds sentimental value for my family, and my father was emotional when I shared the name with him,” he concluded.