Kabaddi enthusiasts, get ready because we just witnessed one of the most exciting auctions in Pro Kabaddi 2025 Auction League (PKL) history. The Pro Kabaddi 2025 Auction was more than just about spending huge money; it was a chessboard of strategy, surprise, and major team shakeups. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just starting to follow the game, there’s plenty to catch up on.
Let’s break down what went down the biggest signings, team strategies, shocking snubs, and players who could turn the league on its head.
The Bidding War Begins: What Made 2025 Special?
Every PKL auction is intense, but this year was different. Teams came in with clear agendas, sharper scouting, and weren’t afraid to go big on rising stars. And with rule tweaks allowing more budget flexibility and player movement, it turned into a full-blown kabaddi marketplace.
In short? It was wild. In the best way.
Record-Breakers: The Most Expensive Buys
Let’s start with the money talk who went for the biggest bucks?
The headline grabber this year was Raider Arjun Deshwal, who was snapped up by Bengaluru Bulls for a jaw-dropping ₹1.25 crore. Yes, you read that right. And he’s worth every penny, with his speed and ability to turn a match in seconds.
Not far behind, Mohammadreza Shadloui, the Iranian defender known for his ankle holds and brutal dashes, was picked up by UP Yoddhas for ₹1.05 crore. That’s the most expensive defender in Pro Kabaddi 2025 Auction history and rightly so.
Young Guns Steal the Show
What really stood out this year was the confidence shown in young, homegrown talent. Franchises didn’t just chase old glory they’re clearly building for the future.
Names like Narender Kandola, Nitin Kumar, and Vikas Kandola (yes, the Kandola legacy continues!) fetched impressive bids, proving that the next generation is not just knocking on the door it’s breaking it down.
Team Strategies: Who Played It Smart?
Let’s talk brains behind the bids.
Jaipur Pink Panthers focused on defense, stacking their squad with solid corners and covers, clearly planning to build an unbreakable wall.
Patna Pirates, always the wildcard, balanced things out going for a mix of young raiders and seasoned defenders. They might’ve pulled off one of the most underrated auctions.
Meanwhile, Tamil Thalaivas made headlines by retaining a strong core and investing in backup raiders rather than splurging. Smart? We’ll find out when the season starts.
Game-Changing Transfers That Shocked Everyone
Every auction has its “Wait, what?” moments and Pro Kabaddi 2025 Auction had a bunch.
Pardeep Narwal, the “Dubki King”, moving to Dabang Delhi? That’s massive. Imagine Pardeep pairing up with Naveen Kumar. Defenders across the league just collectively gulped.
Surender Gill’s switch to Gujarat Giants was another bombshell. That team is now stacked with raiding firepower.
It’s like kabaddi’s version of a transfer window gone rogue.
Retention Drama: Who Stayed, Who Left
Some teams stuck with loyalty over the auction buzz.
Bengal Warriors held on to Maninder Singh, their star man, showing trust in his leadership and raiding prowess.
U Mumba surprisingly released Fazel Atrachali, their long-time defensive leader. A gamble? Definitely.
These moves show that some franchises are willing to gamble on team chemistry over past records.
Foreign Talent: International Stars in Demand
This year also saw a rise in international signings, with teams betting on overseas players for defensive depth and surprise raiding.
Iranian, Korean, and Sri Lankan superstars were rapidly snatched up. As kabaddi grows worldwide, these players provide unpredictability, speed, and new energy to the competition.
Big Misses: Surprisingly Unsold Players
While some players lit up the bidding table, others were surprised to find no takers.
Veterans like Ajay Thakur and Rahul Chaudhari went unsold. It’s the sad but real truth of sports sometimes the old guard gives way to fresh legs. These unsold stories are also reminders of how competitive the league has become.
Players to Watch This Season
If you’re already planning your fantasy league or just curious about breakout stars, here are names to track:
Arjun Deshwal – Obvious, but worth repeating.
Aslam Inamdar – Set for a big season with a new team structure.
Sahil Gulia – Defender with a point to prove.
Narender Kandola – The young raider everyone’s rooting for.
These players could turn out to be this season’s MVPs or the next Pro Kabaddi 2025 Auction legends.
The Buzz Is Real: What Fans Are Saying
Twitter and Instagram exploded post-auction. Memes, opinions, fan predictions kabaddi fans are fired up. The league may not have the glitz of cricket, but the passion? Oh, it’s red hot.
And if you haven’t seen a stadium packed with kabaddi fans in full voice you’re missing out.
Read More: Smooth, Silent, Stylish: First Impressions of the Bajaj Chetak EV
Conclusion
The Pro Kabaddi 2025 Auction wasn’t just about who got sold or who went unsold it was a masterclass in strategy, storytelling, and surprise. Teams have taken risks, invested in the future, and shaken up old formulas.
We’re about to witness a league that’s faster, younger, and more unpredictable than ever.
