The Pro Kabaddi League is India’s most popular kabaddi tournament. Since 2014, it has drawn millions of viewers with fast-paced matches and competitive play. Now, with season 12, it promises to bring new surprises and exciting moments on the mat.
Twelve PKL teams from across the country battle for supremacy every year. Fans enjoy watching skilled raiders and defenders create unforgettable highlights.
Each team brings cities, players, and supporters together through high-energy competition.
From this article, know all PKL teams, their key players, and their championship history. Discover what makes each franchise unique and memorable. Stay updated to enjoy the full excitement of the league.
PKL Teams 2025
The Pro Kabaddi League 2025 features 12 teams, each with its own style of play, strategies, and key players competing for victory.
Team Name | Home City | Captain (2025) | Winning Season(s) | Popular Players |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bengal Warriorz | Kolkata | Devak Dalal | Season 7 (2019) | Maninder Singh, Fazel Atrachali |
Bengaluru Bulls | Bengaluru | Pardeep Narwal [2024]To be announced for 2025 | Season 6 (2018) | Pardeep Narwal, Akash Shinde |
Dabang Delhi KC | Delhi | Ashu Malik | Season 8 (2021) | Naveen Kumar, Ashu Malik |
Gujarat Giants | Ahmedabad | Mohammadreza Shadloui | Not won yet | Parteek Dahiya, Mohammadreza Shadloui |
Haryana Steelers | Panchkula | Jaideep Dahiya | Season 11 (2024) | Jaideep Dahiya, Rahul Sethpal |
Jaipur Pink Panthers | Jaipur | Arjun Deshwal[2024] To be announced for 2025 | Season 1 (2014), Season 9 (2022) | Arjun Deshwal, Reza Mirbagheri |
Patna Pirates | Patna | Ankit Jaglan | Season 3, Season 4, Season 5 | Maninder Singh, Ankit Jaglan |
Puneri Paltan | Pune | Aslam Inamdar | Season 10 (2023) | Aslam Inamdar, Mohit Goyat |
Tamil Thalaivas | Chennai | Pawan Sehrawat | Not won yet | Pawan Sehrawat, Narender |
Telugu Titans | Hyderabad | Vijay Malik | Not won yet | Vijay Malik, Shubham Shinde |
U Mumba | Mumbai | Sunil Kumar | Season 2 (2015) | Sunil Kumar, Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh |
UP Yoddhas | Lucknow | Sumit Sangwan | Not won yet | Sumit Sangwan, Surender Gill |
All About the Pro Kabaddi League and PKL Season 12
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) started in 2014 with eight teams, bringing the traditional sport of kabaddi from rural fields to modern stadiums.
With professional management and international standards, the league quickly transformed kabaddi into a highly organized and exciting sport.

Its fast-paced matches, star players, and wide television coverage helped PKL gain immense popularity. What began as an experiment soon became a cultural phenomenon, drawing millions of viewers to watch every season.
Each franchise represents its home city and plays a vital role in connecting with local fans.
Over time, teams have built loyal fan bases, with supporters filling stadiums, wearing team colors, and cheering passionately, creating an exciting atmosphere during every match.
The league’s auction system allows teams to strategically build their squads by bidding for players in different categories.
This not only adds excitement for fans but also ensures balanced competition, as teams can adapt and rebuild their squads each season to improve performance.

Get To Know the PKL 2025 Teams Better
The 12 teams in the Pro Kabaddi League each have their special strengths and playing styles. Here is a complete look at all the teams competing in the 2025 season:
1. Bengal Warriorz
Bengal Warriorz started their play in 2014 in Kolkata, West Bengal. Right from the start, their never-give-up attitude made fans sit on the edge of their seats. The team quickly earned a loyal following that cheers passionately at every match.

Over the years, they have played some unforgettable games that fans still talk about. Their mix of smart defending and aggressive raiding keeps every match thrilling. The team has become one of the most loved in the league.
For the 2025 season, Naveen Kumar steps in as head coach to guide the team with experience. Devak Dalal leads as captain, adding strategy and leadership to the squad. Together, they aim to build on past successes.
Players like Vishwas S and Yash Malik are the stars of the team. Their raiding skills and quick reflexes make the Warriorz a tough side to tackle. Watching them play brings excitement to fans in Kolkata and across India.
Bengal Warriorz have strong rivalries with Haryana Steelers and Bengaluru Bulls. The 2019 championship win is still celebrated by fans. With each season, the team continues to inspire and entertain its supporters.
Squad List:
- Vishwas S
- Yash Malik
- Manjeet
- Deep Kumar
- Sushil Kambrekar
- Devank Dalal
- Nitesh Kumar
- Ashish
- Parteek
- Omid Khojasteh Mohammadshah
- Jang Kun Lee
- Mayur Kadam
- Himanshu
- Shivansh Thakur
- Harander
- Ankit
- Sandeep Saini
- Moolchandra Singh
2. Bengaluru Bulls
Bengaluru Bulls based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, joined the PKL in 2014. From their very first match, they brought fast-paced raids and solid defense that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Their energy and determination quickly earned them a loyal following.

The Bulls have had many great matches. Close calls and last-minute raids have created some of the most memorable moments in the league. Fans often talk about these games long after the season ends.
For the 2025 season, BC Ramesh takes charge as head coach, bringing his experience as a former player and mentor. The captain is yet to be announced, but last year Pardeep Narwal led the team with skill and determination.
Star players like Yogesh Dahiya and Ankush Rathee are the heart of the team. Their clever raids and solid defense often decide the outcome of games. Watching them play is a treat for fans.
Rivalries with Jaipur Pink Panthers and U Mumba always add extra tension and excitement to the season. The Bulls’ Season 6 championship remains the best highlight.
Squad List:
- Chandranaik M
- Lucky Kumar
- Manjeet
- Pankaj
- Ankush Rathee
- Yogesh Bijender Dahiya
- Sanjay Krishan Dhull
- Dheeraj
- Alireza Mirzaeian
- Manish
- Ahmadreza Asgari
- Satyappa Matti
- Akash Santosh Shinde
- Mahipal
- Sachin
- Shubham Bitake
- Amit Singh Thakur
- Shubham Rahate
- Sahil Suhas Rane
3. Dabang Delhi KC
Dabang Delhi K.C. joined the PKL in 2014 and quickly became a team to watch. Their energy and determination make every match worth watching, and fans in Delhi love the excitement they bring to the game.

The squad has delivered some unforgettable games. Tight finishes and clever plays have created moments that fans remember for seasons. Each match shows the team’s focus and skill under pressure.
For 2025, Joginder Narwal continues as head coach, guiding the team with experience and strategy. Ashu Malik leads as captain, combining smart play with leadership. Together, they aim to keep the squad sharp and competitive.
Star players like Fazel Atrachali and Ashu Malik are the heart of the team. Their quick raids and strong defense make opponents think twice before attacking. Fans enjoy every point and block, knowing the team plays with precision and passion.
Rivalries with Patna Pirates and Bengaluru Bulls always bring extra excitement. Supporters celebrate past achievements like playoff victories and the Season 8 championship.
Squad List:
- Sandeep
- Mohit
- Fazel Atrachali
- Ashu Malik
- Amir Hossein Bastami
- Surjeet Singh
- Saurabh Nandal
- Ashish Kumar Sangwan
- Naveen
- Gaurav Chhillar
- Mohit
- Akshit
- Neeraj Narwal
- Mohit
- Ajinkya Ashok Pawar
- Arkam Shaikh
- Amit
- Vijay
- Anil Gurjar
4. Gujarat Giants
The Pro Kabaddi League welcomed a new team in 2014 when Gujarat Giants joined the competition. The team quickly brought their tactical style to the mat and built a strong presence.

Fans have enjoyed some exciting games as the Giants developed their style. Aggressive raids and clever defense have produced memorable moments. Each match shows the team’s focus and ability to challenge opponents effectively.
For season 12, Jaivir Sharma has been appointed as head coach for the Gujarat Giants. Mohammadreza Shadloui is the new captain, popularly known as “Showstopper” for his explosive defensive skills and signature celebrations.
Star players like Himanshu Singh and Himanshu also guide the team’s performance. Their coordinated raids and disciplined defense make the Giants a difficult opponent.
Gujarat Giants are still chasing their first PKL title, but their strong squad gives them a good chance this season. With their energy and skill, supporters hope to see the Giants lift their first championship in Season 12.
Squad List:
- Himanshu Singh
- Himanshu
- Parteek Dahiya
- Rakesh
- Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh
- Shubham Kumar
- Lucky Sharma
- Nitin Panwar
- Milad Jabbari
- Rohit Kumar
- Ajith V Kumar
- Visvanth V
- Amit
- Sumit
- Himanshu Yadav
- Ankit
- K Harish
5. Haryana Steelers
Haryana Steelers, also known as the “Dhaakad Boys,” made their debut in PKL in 2014. Their nickname, meaning “strong and determined boys,” reflects the team’s fierce mentality.

Their aggressive raids and disciplined defense make their games exciting to watch. Their consistency has helped them grow as one of the PKL’s strongest teams.
Manpreet Singh continues as head coach for the Giants, bringing his extensive experience to guide the squad. Jaideep Dahiya is the captain, who is known to have strategic leadership and on-mat insight.
Star players like Rahul Sethpal and Vinay form the backbone of Haryana Steelers. Their coordinated raids and solid defense make them a formidable side.
The Steelers won the PKL title in 2024, a proud moment for the team and fans. Matches against Bengal Warriorz and Jaipur Pink Panthers are always exciting. Their tagline, “#NonStopHaryanvi,” shows their connection to Haryana and is loved by supporters.
Squad List:
- Rahul Sethpal
- Vinay
- Shivam Anil Patare
- Jaideep Dahiya
- Jaya Soorya NS
- Vishal S Tate
- Sahil
- Manikandan N
- Vikas Ramadas Jadhav
- Naveen Kumar
- Rahul
- Ashish
- Hardeep
- Ghanshyam Roka Magar
- Shahan Sha Mohammed
- Zubair
- Ritik
- Sachin
6. Jaipur Pink Panthers
Since their debut in 2014, the Jaipur Pink Panthers have impressed fans with their quick raids and clever gameplay. Owned by Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan, the team quickly gained popularity across Rajasthan and beyond.

Their consistent performances have kept them among the league’s competitive sides.
For the 2025 season, Narender Redhu continues as head coach, bringing his experience and tactical knowledge. The captain for 2025 is yet to be confirmed, though Arjun Deshwal led the team in 2024.
Star players like Reza Mirbagheri and Abhishek KS form the backbone of the squad. The team has also been featured in the Amazon Prime documentary Sons of the Soil, showing their journey during the seventh PKL season.
The Panthers have lifted the PKL title twice, in 2014 and 2022, becoming only the second team after Patna Pirates to win multiple championships. Panthers’ games against Patna Pirates and Haryana Steelers are always exciting to follow.
Squad List:
- Reza Mirbagheri
- Abhishek KS
- Ronak Singh
- Nitin Kumar
- Sombir
- Ritik Sharma
- Nitin Kumar Dhankhar
- Manjeet Dahiya
- Nitin Rawal
- Ali Samadi Choubtarash
- Aashish Kumar
- Meetu
- Vinay
- Mohit
- Uday Parte
7. Patna Pirates
In 2014, the city of Patna welcomed its own PKL team, the Patna Pirates, who have since become one of the league’s most successful sides. Known for their sharp raids and quick defense, they have built a loyal fan base across Bihar and beyond.

The Pirates are famous for their quick raids and clever defense. They use high-pressure strategies to challenge opponents and make every match exciting. Their consistent performances keep them among the top teams in the league.
In the upcoming season, Anup Kumar will lead as head coach, bringing his experience to guide the team. Ankit Jaglan is the captain for 2025, having also led the team in previous seasons.
Patna Pirates won three straight PKL titles in Seasons 3, 4, and 5, thanks to Pardeep Narwal, the “Dubki King.” They also hold the record of the most overall wins and were the first team to play 100 PKL matches.
The Pirates have strong rivalries with the Jaipur Pink Panthers and U Mumba, which makes their games enjoyable for fans. Their achievements and records have earned them a devoted following, with supporters cheering for them in every season.
Squad List:
- Hamid Mirzaei Nader
- Thiyagarajan Yuvaraj
- Sudhakar M
- Ayan
- Navdeep
- Deepak
- Sahil Patil
- Deepak Rajender Singh
- Ankit Jaglan
- Sanket Suresh Sawant
- Maninder Singh
- Amin Ghorbani
- Balasaheb Shahaji Jadhav
- Sombir
- Mandeep
8. Puneri Paltan
#PaltanGiri in Pune started in 2014 when Puneri Paltan joined the PKL. Known for their strong attacks and reliable defense, the team has built a group of passionate supporters.

The team has delivered exciting performances over the years. Aggressive raids, strong mid-court coordination, and resilient defense make their games the best. Their consistency keeps them among the league’s toughest teams.
The team will have Ajay Thakur as head coach, with years of experience to guide the squad. Aslam Inamdar is the confirmed captain for 2025, who has proven leadership in PKL matches.
Star players Abinesh Nadarajan and Gaurav Khatri lead the raiding attack. Puneri Paltan has also set the record for the most tackle points in Season 10, with 14.54 per game. These achievements make them a well-balanced and competitive side.
Puneri Paltan won the PKL title in 2023 and aims to win the upcoming season now. Their main rivals include U Mumba and Jaipur Pink Panthers, making every match competitive.
Squad List:
- Abinesh Nadarajan
- Gaurav Khatri
- Pankaj Mohite
- Aslam Mustafa Inamdar
- Mohit Goyat
- Dadaso Shivaji Pujari
- Aditya Tushar Shinde
- Sachin Tanwar
- Gurdeep
- Mohd. Amaan
- Milad Mohajer
- Mohammad Esmaeil Nabibakhsh
- Stuwart Singh
- Vishal Bhardwaj
- Rohan Ashok Tupare
9. Tamil Thalaivas
The Tamil Thalaivas were one of the four new franchises added to the Pro Kabaddi League when it expanded in its fifth season in 2017. Based in Tamil Nadu, the team is known for fast raids and organized defense.

The Thalaivas are known for their quick raids and fast movements on the mat. They often surprise opponents with clever attacks and sudden counterplays. Fans enjoy watching their energetic and lively style in every match.
Sanjeev Baliyan leads as head coach for 2025, with D Suresh Kumar as assistant coach, guiding the squad with experience and strategy. Pawan Sehrawat is the team captain and a star raider, bringing leadership and skill to the mat.
In 2018, the Thalaivas launched India’s first private residential kabaddi academy in Chennai. The academy provides free education, housing, nutrition guidance, and modern training facilities to young players on a large scale.
Although the Tamil Thalaivas have not won a PKL title yet, they remain strong contenders, based on their previous match highlights. Their main rivals include Patna Pirates and Jaipur Pink Panthers, whome they aim to defeat in Season 12.
Squad List:
- Moein Shafaghi
- Himanshu
- Sagar
- Nitesh Kumar
- Narender
- Ronak
- Vishal Chahal
- Aashish
- Anuj Kaluram Gawade
- Dhiraj Ravindra Bailmare
- Pawan Sehrawat
- Arjun Deshwal
- Alireza Khalili
- Mohit
- Suresh Jadhav
10. Telugu Titans
The Telugu Titans, based in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, joined PKL in 2014 and quickly became fan favorites in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Co-owned by Telugu film superstar Jr. NTR, they are supported passionately by their #TeluguArmy.

They are also known for being the most expensive team in PKL history after signing Pawan Sehrawat for ₹2.605 crore in Season 10.
Krishan Kumar Hooda leads as head coach for 2025, with Vijay Malik as the team captain. This experienced leadership duo aims to guide the Titans to a strong run in Season 12.
Bharat Hooda and Vijay Malik lead the raids, while Shubham Shinde anchors the defense. The Titans are known for their attacking style, fast raids, and clever maneuvers on the mat, keeping matches exciting for supporters.
Although the Telugu Titans have not yet won a PKL title, they remain strong challengers with a well-balanced squad. Their biggest rivals are Patna Pirates and Bengaluru Bulls, making games between them nail-biting.
Squad List:
- Shankar Bhimraj Gadai
- Ajit Pandurang Pawar
- Ankit
- Praful Sudam Zaware
- Sagar
- Chetan Sahu
- Nitin
- Rohit
- Bharat Hooda
- Vijay Malik (Captain)
- Shubham Shinde
- Amir Hossein Ejlali
- Ganesh Parki
- Ashish Narwal
- Manjeet
- Jai Bhagwan
- Aman
- Rahul Dagar
11. U Mumba
U Mumba, based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, started in 2014 and quickly became one of the league’s top franchises. Inspired by local fishing communities, the team chose orange jerseys to stand out and reflect their bold approach on the mat.

The team is remembered for its consistency and strong performances, including a championship win in 2015. Fans across Maharashtra have supported them passionately, making U Mumba one of the most popular sides in the league.
Anil Chaprana is the head coach for 2025, with Sunil Kumar as the team captain. This combination of leadership and experience aims to guide the squad through a competitive season.
Sunil Kumar and Amir Zafardanesh are the favourite raiders of the team, while the defense remains solid and well-coordinated. Matches against rivals Bengaluru Bulls and Patna Pirates draw large crowds and keep supporters on edge.
Although U Mumba has not consistently won recent titles, their disciplined squad and agile approach make them strong contenders in every season.
Squad List:
- Sunil Kumar (Captain)
- Rohit
- Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh
- Satish Kannan
- Mukilan Shanmugam
- Ajit Chouhan
- Deepak Kundu
- Lokesh Ghosliya
- Sunny
- Rinku Sharma
- Parvesh Bhainswal
- Ravi
- Mohammad Ghorbani
- Sandeep Kumar
- Aanil Mohan
- Amarjeet
12. UP Yoddhas
UP Yoddhas, based in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, joined the Pro Kabaddi League in 2017 and quickly became known for consistent performances. The team is owned by the GMR Group, a major infrastructure conglomerate in UP.

The Yoddhas have reached multiple playoffs but are still chasing their maiden PKL title. Fans across Uttar Pradesh follow the team passionately, making every home game an exciting experience.
Jasveer Singh continues as head coach for 2025, bringing his experience to guide the squad. Sumit Sangwan has been named captain, leading the defense and providing on-mat leadership.
Stars like Surender Gill, Guman Singh, and Mohammadreza Kaboudrahangi add balance to both raids and defense. The team is known for its smart raids and solid defensive setups, keeping opponents on their toes throughout matches.
UP Yoddhas share intense rivalries with Patna Pirates and U Mumba, adding extra excitement to those encounters.
Squad List:
- Sumit (Captain)
- Bhavani Rajput
- Sahul Kumar
- Surender Gill
- Ashu Singh
- Hitesh
- Gagana Gowda HR
- Shivam Chaudhary
- Jayesh Vikas Mahajan
- Gangaram
- Sachin
- Keshav Kumar
- Mahender Singh
- Guman Singh
- Mohammadreza Kaboudrahangi
- Dong Geon Lee
- Pranay Vinay Rane
- Ronak
Pro Kabaddi Team Records and Stats Of All Time
The Pro Kabaddi has given fans some of the best matches and unforgettable moments. Over the years, teams have set records that set the stage for the league’s journey.
Team | Achievements | Record / Highlight |
---|---|---|
Patna Pirates | Most championships | 3 titles (Season 3–5 streak) |
Jaipur Pink Panthers | Championship wins | 2 titles |
Patna Pirates | Overall wins | 122 wins from 229 matches; highest win percentage |
U Mumba | Longest winning streak | 11 consecutive wins (Season 3) |
Dabang Delhi K.C. | Unbeaten streak | 15 straight matches unbeaten (Season 11) |
Tamil Thalaivas | Highest points in a match | 74 points vs Bengal Warriors (Season 10) |
Pro Kabaddi League Schedule for 2025
The Pro Kabaddi League 2025 will begin on August 29 with Telugu Titans facing Tamil Thalaivas at Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Vizag. The opening match promises plenty of excitement for fans.
The season will continue across four cities Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai, and Delhi, running from August to October. Fans can look forward to nail-biting matches as teams compete for the championship in Season 12.
Where to Watch Pro Kabaddi League 2025?
You can watch the Pro Kabaddi League 2025 live on the Star Sports Network, with matches available in multiple regional languages for your convenience.
If you prefer online viewing, you can stream every match live on Disney+ Hotstar, making it easy to follow the action on your phone, laptop, or smart TV.
You can also track live scores, schedules, and match updates through the official Pro Kabaddi app and website.
Who is Expected to Win PKL Season 12?
The upcoming PKL season will be full of excitement, and every team will bring its best to compete for the championship. Squad balance and teamwork will play a big role in deciding the winner.
I feel Haryana Steelers are likely to take the title this season. Their squad looks strong and well-balanced, and their experience as defending champions gives them an edge over the other teams.
Fans should stay tuned for the matches starting on 29th August, as the season is sure to deliver surprises and memorable moments.
Disclaimer: The predicted winner is based on analysis of past performances, but PKL matches are always full of surprises.
Related Reads:
Conclusion: PKL Teams Define Kabaddi’s Spirit With Passion, Skill, And Unity
The 12 teams of the Pro Kabaddi League have made kabaddi exciting and entertaining. Each team brings its own style, energy, and loyal fans, making every match a thrill to watch.
All teams have contributed to the league’s growth, producing stars who inspire fans across India and beyond. Every franchise adds something unique, making the competition intense and full of surprises.
PKL 2025 kicks off on August 29, 2025, promising new talent, fierce matches, and unforgettable moments. Fans can look forward to cheering for their favorite teams as the excitement continues.
FAQs
Each PKL team can have a maximum of 25 players in their squad for the season.
Patna Pirates hold the highest win percentage at 53.27% with 122 wins from 229 matches played.
Franchises are allocated home cities based on geographical representation, market potential, and fan base considerations during league expansion.
Pardeep Narwal holds the all-time record with 1,801 raid points scored during his PKL career.
Each PKL team can include international players in their squad, with many Iranian and Korean players participating regularly.