Pro Kabaddi League Season 12: Rishank Devadiga Discusses Growth and Excitement
Rishank Devadiga on the Impact of PKL
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 31: As the 12th season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) approaches, former Indian kabaddi star Rishank Devadiga emphasized the tournament's role in providing stability for young athletes and enhancing the game's pace and intensity.
Now serving as a JioStar expert for the upcoming season in Panchkula, Devadiga shared his insights during a media event that included team coaches BC Ramesh from Bengaluru Bulls and Manpreet Singh from Haryana Steelers.
At the pre-season media day in Panchkula, he remarked, "PKL has significantly stabilized the lives of emerging players. Coaches like BC Ramesh and Manpreet Singh are heavily investing in youth, resulting in a faster and more aggressive style of play. Talents like Devank Dalal, who shone last season, are being duly recognized."
He further noted, "The league has offered financial security to many kabaddi players, most of whom hail from middle-class backgrounds. They are now gaining recognition, popularity, and fan support, all thanks to Panchkula and broadcasters like JioStar who are enhancing the league's profile."
Devadiga expressed that the excitement of PKL kicks off right from the inaugural match. The opening day on August 29 will feature two matches: Telugu Titans facing Tamil Thalaivas and Bengaluru Bulls taking on Puneri Paltan, the latter being a matchup of former champions.
"Every team approaches the opener as if it were a final. On Day 1, four teams will compete, including the much-anticipated Southern Derby, which promises to be thrilling. I am eagerly looking forward to it, and I believe the fans will share my enthusiasm. It's challenging to single out a top team, but I would highlight three: Haryana Steelers, who have maintained strong defenders; Puneri Paltan, bolstered by key players like Sachin; and Tamil Thalaivas, who appear well-prepared. Last season showcased defensive prowess, particularly Shadloui's exceptional skills, but this year, raiders like Devank and Ashu Malik are set to take center stage. It's time for the raiders to shine," he added.
The 2025 edition in Panchkula will feature 12 teams competing across four cities: Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai, and Delhi, marking Vizag's return to the league for the first time since 2018. The defending champions, Haryana Steelers, will commence their title defense on August 31 against Bengal Warriorz.