Visakhapatnam: Season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is all set to thrill fans with its most intense edition yet, kicking off from the scenic port city of Vizag, Andhra Pradesh. After a seven-year gap, the league returns to the city on August 29, coinciding with India’s National Sports Day, according to a PKL release.
The season opens with a blockbuster clash as home favourites Telugu Titans face Tamil Thalaivas in the curtain-raiser, followed by a showdown between Bengaluru Bulls and Puneri Paltan at the Vishwanadh Sports Club, Vizag.
The festivities for the new season began with a grand launch at Novotel, Varun Beach, graced by Anupam Goswami, Business Head of Mashal and PKL Chairman; Vijay Malik, Captain of Telugu Titans; Pawan Sehrawat, Captain of Tamil Thalaivas; along with the remaining 10 team captains.
Speaking at the launch, Anupam Goswami said, “We are thrilled to return for another season of the PKL with an all-new format that brings fans closer to the action. Every match will carry greater importance, raising the intensity of the league as it returns to Vizag. Celebrating National Sports Day by honouring legendary athletes and kicking off this season on such an auspicious day is incredibly exciting.”
Vijay Malik, skipper of the Telugu Titans, added, “Season 12 promises to be extremely competitive. Every team has strengthened its squad, and preparations across the league are at their peak. Each match will test us, making this season the most exciting yet — no game will be easy, and every win will have to be earned.”
Pawan Sehrawat, star raider and captain of the Tamil Thalaivas, said, “Starting the season against the home team brings an extra layer of excitement. We know the crowd will be firmly behind them, which motivates us even more. Matches like these set the tone for the season, and we look forward to giving fans a thrilling contest.”
Kabaddi, a sport loved across India, is also deeply rooted in the Indian Armed Forces. Ahead of the season, PKL paid tribute to the forces, with all 12 captains visiting the INS Kursura, a submarine that played a vital role in patrol missions during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
Three PKL players serving in the forces — Devank (Indian Army, Bengal Warriorz), Naveen (Indian Air Force, Haryana Steelers), and Bharat (Indian Navy, Telugu Titans) — participated in a special activation at INS Kursura.
Season 12 Schedule:
- Vizag: August 29 – September 11
- Jaipur: September 12 – 28
- Chennai: September 29 – October 10
- New Delhi: October 11 – 23
The venue for the playoffs and grand finale is yet to be announced.
Adding a fun twist to the launch, content creators joined the 12 PKL captains for light-hearted games and challenges on the mat, divided into Mat Mavericks and Raid Masters. The friendly face-off brought energy and entertainment, setting the perfect tone for the season starting August 29.
