Most Expensive Players in Each Pro Kabaddi League Season
Kabaddi, once a traditional Indian sport, has transformed into a global spectacle through the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). With its rising popularity, the league has witnessed some extraordinary talents that have become the sought-after gems in the auction. In this article, we'll take a look at the most expensive player in each PKL season, tracing their impact on the league and their respective teams.
Season 1: Rakesh Kumar - INR 12.80 lakh to Patna Pirates
The inaugural season marked the birth of the PKL, and Rakesh Kumar emerged as the league's first big-money signing. Patna Pirates secured the services of this skilled all-rounder for INR 12.80 lakh. Despite playing only four matches and scoring 17 points, Kumar's presence played a vital role in taking the Pirates to the semi-finals.
Season 2: Hadi Oshtorak - INR 21.1 Lakh to Telugu Titans
Season 2 witnessed Hadi Oshtorak making headlines as the costliest player, joining Telugu Titans for INR 21.1 lakh. As a prominent defender, Oshtorak showcased his talents in the league, proving his worth for the Titans.
Season 3: Unknown
Information about the most expensive player in Season 3 remains undisclosed, leaving a mysterious chapter in PKL's history.
Season 4: Mohit Chhillar - INR 53 lakh to Bengaluru Bulls
Season 4 brought a massive boost in the player auctions with Mohit Chhillar, the formidable defender, attracting attention. Bengaluru Bulls acquired his services for a hefty INR 53 lakh, four times his base price. Chhillar's remarkable 47 tackle points contributed significantly, even though the Bulls missed the playoffs, finishing sixth.
Season 5: Nitin Tomar - INR 93 lakh to U.P. Yoddha
Nitin Tomar created waves during Season 5, becoming one of PKL's most expensive players when U.P. Yoddha signed him for INR 93 lakh. He justified his price tag with an outstanding performance, scoring a staggering 167 raid points in 20 games, taking U.P. Yoddha to the playoffs.
Season 6: Monu Goyat - INR 1.51 crore to Haryana Steelers
Monu Goyat emerged as the costliest player in Season 6 as Haryana Steelers secured his services for INR 1.51 crore. A title winner with Patna Pirates, Goyat showcased his talent with 160 raid points for Haryana. Despite his brilliance, the Steelers finished at the bottom of the Zone A standings.
Season 7: Siddharth Desai - INR 1.45 crore to Telugu Titans
Siddharth Desai took the league by storm in his debut season with U Mumba, amassing 218 raid points. Telugu Titans saw immense potential in him and signed him for a staggering INR 1.45 crore, accounting for nearly a third of their budget. With 217 raid points in Season 7, Desai stood as the league's second-most expensive player, even though the Titans finished 11th in the standings.
Season 8: Pardeep Narwal - INR 1.65 crore to U.P. Yoddha
Pardeep Narwal, the revered 'Dubki King,' created history in Season 8 by becoming the most expensive signing in PKL. After five successful seasons with Patna Pirates, Narwal moved to U.P. Yoddha for an astounding INR 1.65 crore. Despite his impressive tally of 188 raid points, Yoddha's campaign ended in the semi-finals.
Season 9: Pawan Kumar Sehrawat - INR 2.26 crore to Tamil Thalaivas
Pawan Kumar Sehrawat etched his name in PKL history during Season 9 as the first player to breach the two-crore mark. Tamil Thalaivas splurged INR 2.26 crore to acquire his services. Known for his explosive raiding abilities, Sehrawat boasts a record of 986 raid points and 49 Super 10s in 104 matches.
As the PKL continues to captivate fans worldwide, the journey of its most expensive players unfolds as a testament to the league's ever-increasing allure and the players' unyielding brilliance. These kabaddi superstars have not only elevated their teams but also etched their names in the annals of kabaddi history, inspiring generations to come.
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