Kabaddi has become a global phenomenon, attracting enthusiasts worldwide. Since 2014, the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has revolutionized the sport. PKL inspires future sportsmen and kabaddi fans with its classic and modern style. As the PKL enters its tenth year, let’s look back at its teams, champions, and memorable moments, and how you can follow it on 96in.com for live updates, betting, and more.
The Evolution of the Pro Kabaddi League
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Spectacle
PKL’s 2014 introduction popularized kabaddi, inspired by cricket’s IPL. The league’s success comes from combining tradition and innovation to engage Indian and international viewers.
The PKL Effect on Kabaddi
PKL’s format and reach have revived kabaddi as a professional sport with global fans. It generated national heroes and introduced kabaddi to South Korea, Iran, and Kenya. To help fans stay informed and gamble properly, platforms like 96in.com have increased their accessibility.
PKL Champions: Year-by-Year Highlights
2014: Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Final Match: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs. U Mumba
- Score: 35–24
- Highlight: Jaipur Pink Panthers, led by Navneet Gautam, claimed the inaugural title with exceptional team coordination.
2015: U Mumba
- Final Match: U Mumba vs. Bengaluru Bulls
- Score: 36–30
- Highlight: U Mumba’s Anup Kumar dominated the season, leading his team to their maiden victory after narrowly missing out in 2014.
2016 (January): Patna Pirates
- Final Match: Patna Pirates vs. U Mumba
- Score: 31–28
- Highlight: Patna Pirates, under Sandeep Narwal, secured their first title in a closely contested final.
2016 (June): Patna Pirates
- Final Match: Patna Pirates vs. Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Score: 37–29
- Highlight: Patna became the first team to win back-to-back titles, showcasing consistent dominance.
2017: Patna Pirates
- Final Match: Patna Pirates vs. Gujarat Fortune Giants
- Score: 55–38
- Highlight: Pardeep Narwal’s record-breaking raid points made this final legendary as Patna claimed their third consecutive title.
2018: Bengaluru Bulls
- Final Match: Bengaluru Bulls vs. Gujarat Fortune Giants
- Score: 38–33
- Highlight: Rohit Kumar led the Bulls to their first-ever championship with a stellar performance.
2019: Bengal Warriors
- Final Match: Bengal Warriors vs. Dabang Delhi K.C.
- Score: 39–34
- Highlight: Bengal Warriors won their maiden title, with Maninder Singh’s leadership shining through.
2021: Dabang Delhi K.C.
- Final Match: Dabang Delhi K.C. vs. Patna Pirates
- Score: 37–36
- Highlight: After the pandemic hiatus, Dabang Delhi K.C. clinched their first title with Joginder Narwal as captain.
2022: Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Final Match: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs. Puneri Paltan
- Score: 33–29
- Highlight: Jaipur reclaimed their crown, becoming two-time champions.
2023: Puneri Paltan
- Final Match: Puneri Paltan vs. Haryana Steelers
- Score: 28–25
- Highlight: Puneri Paltan, led by Aslam Inamdar, secured their historic first title.
2024: The Awaited Champion
Fans are eagerly following the ongoing 2024 season. Stay tuned to 96in.com app for live updates, match schedules, and betting options.
Memorable PKL Finals
U Mumba vs. Patna Pirates (2016, January)
U Mumba and Patna Pirates played a thrilling PKL final in January 2016. U Mumba proved strategic and skilled under Anup Kumar. Patna Pirates’ defense, led by Fazel Atrachali and Sandeep Narwal, stopped U Mumba’s raiders. Rohit Kumar scored crucial raid points as Patna won their maiden PKL title 31–28 and established their domination.
Patna Pirates vs. Gujarat Fortune Giants (2017)
The 2017 PKL final between Patna Pirates and Gujarat Fortune Giants was a kabaddi masterclass. Pardeep Narwal’s unforgettable “Dubki” motion stole the evening. Narwal destroyed Gujarat’s defense with 19 raid points. Patna Pirates won their third straight PKL 55–38. This match shows Narwal’s talent and Patna’s tenacity in kabaddi.
Key Players Who Made History
Famous Captains
- Anup Kumar (U Mumba), “Captain Cool,” led his team with an unequalled strategy.
- The “Dubki King” Pardeep Narwal (Patna Pirates) helped Patna reach its peak.
- Meninder Singh led the Bengal Warriors to their first title.
Game-Changing Raiders
- Pawan Sehrawat (Bengaluru Bulls): Agility and match-winning raids.
- Naveen Kumar (Dabang Delhi K.C.): The young raider has shaped PKL.
Experience PKL Like Never Before with 96.in
96in.com enhances PKL for fans:
- Live updates: Follow matches live.
- Betting: Bet responsibly on your favorite teams with the 96 betting app.
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- Deep Analysis: Expert insights and match predictions keep you ahead.
Conclusion:
The Pro Kabaddi League has made kabaddi a global sport. From Jaipur Pink Panthers’ 2014 success to Puneri Paltan’s 2023 win, PKL’s intensity and drama continue to attract fans. As the league approaches its 2024 finale, fans are more interested than ever. Whether you’re a kabaddi pro or newbie, 96in.com keeps you updated. Check out the 96 game app for updates, betting, and unmatched entertainment.
