Pro Kabaddi League season 12 to kick off with sporting legends on National Sports Day

By Admin

28 Aug, 2025

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is back with its 12th season, and this year’s launch promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Scheduled for August 29   National Sports Day   the grand opening will unite India’s sporting legends to celebrate the country’s heritage, achievements, and the growing cultural influence of kabaddi.

A Star-Studded Launch on National Sports Day

Marking the occasion of National Sports Day, the opening ceremony will bring together icons from different sporting arenas. Padma Bhushan awardee and Indian badminton legend Pullela Gopichand, hockey stalwart and former India captain Dhanraj Pillay, kabaddi superstar Pardeep Narwal, and Rajasthan Royals cricket sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi will share the stage to kick off the new season.

The highlight of the ceremony will be the legends standing together for the National Anthem, symbolizing India’s sporting unity and paying tribute to the champions who have brought global recognition to the nation.

Honouring India’s Sporting Legacy

The presence of these icons underscores the spirit of PKL   a league that celebrates India’s indigenous sport while embracing the nation’s broader sporting journey. “On the auspicious occasion of National Sports Day, it is only fitting that this season of the Pro Kabaddi League begins in the presence of legends who have shaped India’s sporting journey. Their legacy reflects the very spirit PKL celebrates   honouring our roots while taking kabaddi to new heights. We’re privileged to have them with us as we usher in another thrilling season,” said Anupam Goswami, Business Head – Mashal & League Commissioner, Pro Kabaddi.

For the younger generation, the event is also an inspiration. Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi shared, “National Sports Day reminds me how sports bring everyone together. Playing teaches you teamwork, discipline, and resilience. I feel lucky to be part of Rajasthan Royals, learning and chasing my dreams   and I hope more kids like me start playing and believing in themselves.”

New Competitive Formats in Season 12

The 12th season of PKL introduces exciting changes to keep fans on the edge of their seats. For the first time ever, every match will produce a result, with tiebreakers introduced even during the league stage. Additionally, a new ‘play-in’ phase has been added between the league stage and playoffs:

• The top two teams will qualify directly for the playoffs.
  
  

• Teams finishing 3rd and 4th will contest a mini-qualifier.
  
  

• Teams ranked 5th to 8th will battle it out in the play-in phase for a playoff spot.
  
  

These changes ensure a more competitive season where every point matters.

Opening Clash: A Southern Derby

The action begins with a high-voltage Southern Derby on August 29, where Telugu Titans take on Tamil Thalaivas. Fans can witness the electrifying raids, blocks, and tackles live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network as PKL Season 12 unfolds.

A Celebration of Heritage and Aspiration

As kabaddi continues to grow beyond India’s borders, PKL Season 12 stands as a testament to the sport’s rising cultural resonance. By launching on National Sports Day with legends from multiple disciplines, the league not only celebrates India’s sporting past but also inspires future generations to dream big.

With tradition, competition, and innovation blending seamlessly, this season of Pro Kabaddi promises to be a thrilling ride for fans across the world.