Oct 10, 2023
“PKL Icons: Shadloui and Atrachali Make History”
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) auction witnessed a groundbreaking moment as Iranian kabaddi powerhouse Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh clinched a historic Rs 2.35 crore deal with Puneri Paltan. Simultaneously, Indian ace Maninder Singh secured a lucrative Rs 2.12 crore contract with Bengal Warriors, setting the stage for a season pulsating with excitement.
The Auction Unfolds
With twelve teams locked in intense competition, the two-day PKL auction kicked off, featuring players from the dynamic categories A and B. Anticipation soared as the next day promised even more heart-pounding action with the auctions of categories C and D.
Anticipating the 10th Edition
PKL’s 10th edition promises an electrifying lineup of 137 matches, including 132 league stage clashes and a high-stakes playoff with two eliminators, two gripping semifinals, and a grand finale.
Categories and Bidding Frenzy
Category A set the stage ablaze with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, while Category B held strong at Rs 20 lakh. Categories C and D stood their ground with base prices of Rs 13 lakh and Rs 9 lakh respectively, showcasing the league’s dedication to nurturing talent across various tiers.
Shadloui’s Record Triumph
Iran’s versatile captain, Shadloui, immediately garnered intense interest, leading to a record-breaking Rs 2.35 crore contract with Puneri Paltan. Notably, his former team, Patna Pirates, chose not to exercise their Final Bid Match (FBM) option, sealing the deal.
Insight from the Coach
Puneri Paltan’s strategic move in acquiring Shadloui was explained by their astute coach BC Ramesh, “We needed someone on the left. We came with the mindset of picking him up at the auctions.” This move underscores the team’s dedication to fortifying their ranks.
Atrachali’s Landmark Deal
Adding to the drama was the acquisition of Fazal Atrachali by Gujarat Giants for an astounding Rs 1.60 crore, setting a new benchmark for defender bids in the tournament’s history.
Noteworthy Signings
In Category A, the versatile Rohit Gulia found his new home with Gujarat Giants, securing a deal for Rs 58.50 lakh. Meanwhile, the sought-after raider Maninder Singh initially joined Telugu Titans for Rs 2.12 crore, but Bengal Warriors exercised their FBM option to retain the player.
Category B Dynamics
Category B witnessed a flurry of action, with players like Mohammad Nabibakhsh and Arkam Shaikh clinching deals with Gujarat Giants for Rs 22 lakh and Rs 20.25 lakh respectively. Bengal Warriors bolstered their lineup with the acquisition of Nitin Rawal for Rs 30 lakh, while U Mumba made key additions with Girish Ernak and Mahender Singh.
No Takers for Seasoned Players
However, some seasoned players including Sandeep Narwal, Deepak Niwas Hooda, Ashish, Manoj Gowda, Sachin Narwal, Gurdeep, Ajinkya Kapre, and Vishal Bhardwaj found no takers this time around.
The Pro Kabaddi League auction stands as a watershed moment, with players commanding eye-watering sums, reaffirming the league’s meteoric rise in global sporting significance. As the countdown to the 10th edition of PKL gains momentum, fans can expect a season teeming with unmatched skill, fierce competition, and unyielding determination.
