The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) returns for its twelfth season with a fresh look, renewed energy, and a format overhaul that promises to redefine the competitive landscape of India’s premier kabaddi tournament. Kicking off on August 29, 2025, in Visakhapatnam, PKL 12 is set to be one of the most unpredictable and thrilling editions yet, with 12 franchises battling across four cities—Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai, and Delhi—for supremacy in a sport that continues to evolve in both style and substance.

Format Overhaul: Shorter, Sharper, and More Competitive

One of the most significant changes in PKL 12 is the restructuring of the league format. The number of league-stage matches has been reduced from 132 to 108, with each team now playing 18 games instead of 22. This adjustment aims to reduce player fatigue and injury risks, which were major concerns in Season 11.

Gone are the days of drawn matches. PKL 12 introduces the “Golden Raid”—a five-raid shootout that replaces ties with decisive outcomes. This innovation, inspired by cricket’s Super Over, ensures that every match ends with a winner and a loser, adding urgency and drama to the league stage.

The points system has also been simplified. Teams will now earn two points for a win and none for a loss, eliminating the previous complexity of bonus and tie points. This binary structure makes the standings easier to follow and places greater emphasis on outright victories.

Playoff Pathways: A New Route to Glory

The playoff structure has undergone a radical transformation. While the top two teams still enjoy a direct route to the semifinals, the rest of the top eight face a more arduous journey. Teams finishing 5th to 8th must navigate a gauntlet of six knockout matches—starting with a play-in, followed by three eliminators, a qualifier, and the final.

This format rewards consistency during the league stage but also keeps hope alive for lower-ranked teams, making the playoffs more inclusive and unpredictable. It’s a system designed to keep fans engaged until the very last match.

Auction Drama: Big Buys and Bold Bets

The PKL 12 auction was a spectacle in itself, with record-breaking bids and strategic reshuffles. Iranian superstar Mohammadreza Shadloui was snapped up by Gujarat Giants for over ₹2 crore, making him one of the most expensive players in league history. His defensive prowess and all-round capabilities could be the X-factor for Gujarat this season.

Bengal Warriorz made headlines by acquiring Devank Dalal for ₹2.205 crore, while Dabang Delhi retained Ashu Malik for ₹1.90 crore. Tamil Thalaivas secured Arjun Deshwal for ₹1.405 crore, signaling their intent to build a formidable raiding unit.

These high-profile moves reflect a generational shift in PKL, with franchises investing heavily in emerging talent and redefining their tactical identities.

Team-by-Team Outlook

Haryana Steelers

The defending champions enter PKL 12 with a largely unchanged squad, minus Shadloui. Coach Manpreet Singh remains optimistic, banking on continuity and the explosive raiding of Naveen Kumar. However, the absence of a dominant left-corner defender could expose vulnerabilities.

Gujarat Giants

With Shadloui anchoring their defense and a balanced raiding lineup, Gujarat looks poised for a deep playoff run. The challenge will be integrating new players quickly and maintaining consistency across venues.

Bengal Warriorz

Devank Dalal’s arrival adds firepower, but the team’s over-reliance on him could be a concern. Their defense, led by Yash Malik and Manjeet, must step up to support the raiding unit.

Dabang Delhi K.C.

Ashu Malik and Fazel Atrachali form a potent duo, combining youth and experience. Delhi’s squad depth and tactical flexibility make them strong contenders, especially with Joginder Narwal returning as head coach.

Puneri Paltan

Captain Aslam Inamdar is back from injury, and his leadership will be crucial. With a settled squad and a strong defensive core, Pune could reclaim their Season 10 glory if their raiders find rhythm early.

Patna Pirates

The departure of Devank Dalal has shifted focus to defense, with Ankit Jaglan leading the charge. Ayan Lohchab’s development as a lead raider will determine Patna’s fortunes.

Bengaluru Bulls

Akash Shinde takes over as vice-captain and lead raider, reuniting with coach BC Ramesh. The Bulls boast a star-studded lineup but must quickly establish chemistry to avoid early setbacks.

Telugu Titans

Led by Vijay Malik, the Titans open the season against Tamil Thalaivas. Their revamped squad includes promising youngsters and seasoned campaigners, but consistency remains their Achilles’ heel.

Tamil Thalaivas

Arjun Deshwal’s arrival boosts their raiding arsenal, while Pawan Sehrawat’s leadership adds experience. The Thalaivas are dark horses with the potential to surprise.

Jaipur Pink Panthers

Always a tactically sound unit, Jaipur will rely on their defensive trio and emerging raiders to stay competitive. Their playoff pedigree makes them a team to watch.

U.P. Yoddhas

A balanced squad with no marquee signings, Yoddhas will depend on teamwork and strategic execution. Their ability to grind out wins could be their biggest asset.

U Mumba

In transition mode, U Mumba is focusing on youth development. While not immediate title contenders, they could play spoiler and shape the playoff race.

Host Cities: Expanding the Kabaddi Footprint

PKL 12 will be played across four cities—Visakhapatnam, Jaipur, Chennai, and Delhi—bringing the sport closer to fans in diverse regions. The opening leg in Vizag marks the league’s return to the city after seven years, with matches scheduled at the Vishwanath Sports Club.

This multi-city format not only boosts regional engagement but also tests teams’ adaptability to different conditions and fan environments.

Players to Watch

• Mohammadreza Shadloui (Gujarat Giants): The Iranian all-rounder is a game-changer on both ends of the mat.
• Devank Dalal (Bengal Warriorz): The most expensive buy of the season, his raiding will be under the spotlight.
• Ashu Malik (Dabang Delhi): Retained for a hefty sum, he’s expected to lead Delhi’s charge.
• Aslam Inamdar (Puneri Paltan): Back from injury, his all-round skills and leadership are vital.
• Akash Shinde (Bengaluru Bulls): The new vice-captain has the potential to become a breakout star.

A Season of Possibilities

Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 is more than just a tournament—it’s a reinvention of the sport’s competitive structure, a celebration of emerging talent, and a showcase of strategic innovation. With a shorter league, no ties, and a playoff format that rewards resilience, PKL 12 is set to deliver edge-of-the-seat action from start to finish.

As kabaddi continues its evolution from a rustic pastime to a televised spectacle, this season could mark a turning point in how the sport is played, consumed, and remembered. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, PKL 12 promises a gripping ride through the heart of India’s most dynamic contact sport.