Gurugram, Jan 10 (NationPress) The Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) is stirring excitement throughout the kabaddi landscape, capturing international interest in anticipation of its player draft and the commencement of the season, with contributions from nations including Egypt, Kenya, Argentina, Taiwan, and Poland.
Within India, the enthusiasm is palpable among esteemed kabaddi athletes eager to join the GI-PKL. Players such as Sawin Narwal, Sandeep Kandola, Ajay Kumar, and Kapil Narwal are already on board. National gold medalists including M Anitha, Indra Rohini, Arul Santhiya, and Selvarebiksha have also secured their spots, while players like Sunil Narwal, Shiv Kumar, and Vikash Dahiya are still in contention.
The Andhra Pradesh raider Venkateshwara Goud is poised to make his presence felt, enhancing the depth of the player lineup. Furthermore, female athletes from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have expressed interest in joining the league.
The inaugural season of GI-PKL will showcase 12 teams, split equally into six women's teams and six men's teams, each reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of India. The teams have been thoughtfully named to honor their regional identities:
Women’s Teams: Marathi Falcons, Bhojpuri Leopardess, Telugu Cheetahs, Tamil Lioness, Punjabi Tigress, and Haryanvi Eagles.
Men’s Teams: Marathi Vultures, Bhojpuri Leopards, Telugu Panthers, Tamil Lions, Punjabi Tigers, and Haryanvi Sharks.
Each franchise will manage both a men’s and a women’s team, marking a groundbreaking approach in kabaddi that promotes equality and inclusivity.
Regarding player involvement, Kanthi D. Suresh, president of the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA), stated, "The enthusiasm surrounding GI-PKL showcases the popularity of kabaddi and the ability of sports to bridge cultures and dismantle barriers. The significant interest from both international and domestic players emphasizes our goal of establishing an inclusive and dynamic kabaddi platform."
In December 2024, the Global Pravasi Kabaddi League (GPKL) announced its merger with the Indian Premier Kabaddi League (IPKL), creating the GI-PKL, where both men’s and women’s teams will compete under a single league banner on the same mat size, a first in the sport's history.
A total of 66 matches are scheduled for the first season, which will span nearly a month.
