Opening Day – PKL 2025
The mats are set, the raiders are ready, and the roar of the crowd is back! Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 officially commenced on August 29th, 2025, a truly special date as it coincided with India’s National Sports Day. This year, the league promises to be bigger, bolder, and more competitive than ever before, with all 12 teams vying for the coveted trophy.
The opening day, held at the iconic DOME@NSCI SVP Stadium in Mumbai, was nothing short of spectacular, delivering two high-octane encounters that set the tone for an exhilarating season ahead.
PKL Opening Day crossed 1 crore views on JioHotstar 📺🔥"
— Kabaddi360 (@Kabaddi_360) August 29, 2025
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.#ProKabaddi #PKL2025#PKLSeason12 #Viewership #JioHotstar #Kabaddi360 pic.twitter.com/Kcu7qX3gqj
The Teams: A Look at the PKL 12 Contenders
This season features a familiar line-up of 12 formidable teams, each with a unique blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Here’s a quick rundown:
Bengal Warriors
Bengaluru Bulls
Dabang Delhi K.C.
Gujarat Giants
Haryana Steelers
Jaipur Pink Panthers
Patna Pirates
Puneri Paltan
Tamil Thalaivas
Telugu Titans
U Mumba
UP Yoddhas
How They’re Stacked Up: Early Season Predictions
While it’s still early days, the pre-season buzz and player auctions have given us a glimpse into each team’s potential. Some teams have opted for continuity, retaining their core, while others have gone for a complete overhaul, hoping for a fresh start.
Defending Champions: Puneri Paltan
The reigning champions, Puneri Paltan, enter PKL Season 12 with a target on their backs. Led by their astute captain and a well-drilled squad, they will be looking to replicate their success and create history by defending their title. Their consistent raiding unit and robust defense make them a formidable force.
Main Contenders for PKL 12 Trophy:
This year, the competition is fierce, and several teams are strong contenders for the championship.
Dabang Delhi K.C.:
Always a strong team, Delhi has bolstered their squad and looks incredibly balanced. Their star raiders are expected to light up the tournament.
Jaipur Pink Panthers:
With a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent, the Pink Panthers are aiming to reclaim their past glory. Their tactical approach and solid defense could be their trump card.
Patna Pirates:
The most successful team in PKL history, the Pirates are always a threat. Their raiding prowess, coupled with their never-say-die attitude, makes them a perennial contender.
Bengaluru Bulls:
Known for their aggressive style of play, the Bulls have a dynamic raiding unit that can turn any game on its head. If their defense clicks, they will be a force to reckon with.
UP Yoddhas:
The Yoddhas have consistently performed well in recent seasons. With a strong all-rounder presence, they possess the ability to challenge any team.
Day 1 Thrillers: Matches That Ignited the Season!
The opening day delivered exactly what fans expected – edge-of-the-seat action and thrilling finishes.
Match 1: Puneri Paltan vs. U Mumba
The Season 12 opener saw a highly anticipated clash between the defending champions, Puneri Paltan, and arch-rivals U Mumba. The atmosphere was electric as both teams stepped onto the mat.
From the whistle, it was a battle of wits and strength. Puneri Paltan, showcasing their championship pedigree, started strong with their raiders picking up crucial points. However, U Mumba, known for their resilience, fought back valiantly. The first half saw a tight contest, with neither team giving an inch.
In the second half, U Mumba’s defense tightened, and their experienced raiders began to make inroads into Puneri Paltan’s territory. The game swung back and forth, with breathtaking tackles and daring raids. In the dying minutes, U Mumba managed to inflict an all-out, turning the tide in their favor. Despite a valiant effort by the defending champions, U Mumba emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter, signaling their intent for the season. `
Match 2: Dabang Delhi K.C. vs. Bengal Warriors
The second match of the evening pitted a star-studded Dabang Delhi K.C. against the resilient Bengal Warriors. This promised to be a high-scoring affair, and it certainly delivered!
Dabang Delhi K.C. began with their raiders firing on all cylinders, swiftly accumulating points. The Bengal Warriors, however, were not to be outdone. Their tactical defense and agile raiders ensured they stayed in the hunt. The game was a showcase of aggressive raiding and strategic defending.
The second half was a nail-biter. Both teams traded blows, with momentum shifting constantly. Delhi’s star raiders showcased their individual brilliance, while the Warriors displayed excellent team cohesion. In a dramatic finish, with the scores almost level, Dabang Delhi K.C. managed to secure a critical raid point and hold their nerve in defense, ultimately winning the match by a narrow margin. It was a testament to their strength and a sign that they are indeed serious contenders this season.
What’s Next for PKL Season 12?
With an explosive start to the season on National Sports Day, Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 is poised to deliver months of thrilling action, incredible athleticism, and unforgettable moments. Fans can expect more intense rivalries, individual brilliance, and strategic masterclasses as the teams battle it out for supremacy. Stay tuned for all the updates and catch every raid, tackle, and point as the race for the PKL 12 trophy heats up!
#PKL12 #ProKabaddi #KabaddiIsBack #NationalSportsDay #IndianSports #KabaddiFever #PKL2025 #RaiderVsDefender #MatPeMilenge
