Explained: What are the new rules, format introduced for PKL Season 2025
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), on Friday, announced significant format changes for Season 12, introducing an enhanced league stage and revamped Playoff structure. The upcoming season, beginning August 29, will be held in Visakhapatnam, Jaipur, Chennai and Delhi.
New League Stage Structure
The league stage of the upcoming season will have 108 matches, where each team will play 18 matches. This format elevates the competition by ensuring teams face rigorous tests throughout the league stage.
Tie-Breaking System in league stages
A comprehensive tie-breaker rule system, including the Golden Raid format, will be introduced to all league-stage matches. Previously limited only to Playoff matches, this system now ensures decisive outcomes throughout the tournament.
In case of ties, teams will engage in a structured 5-raid shootout with special rules as follows:
• Both teams field 7 players with the baulk line treated as baulk line cum bonus line
• Each team nominates 5 different raiders who raid alternately
• Out and revival rules don’t apply – only points scored count
• If still tied after 5 raids, the Golden Raid rule applies
If both teams remain tied after golden raids, the winner is decided by a toss.
Simplified Points Table System
Teams will now be awarded 2 points for a win and 0 points for a loss.
Introduction of Play-ins & Playoffs Format Revamp
This season will see the introduction of Play-ins alongside a revamped playoffs structure. For the first time, the top eight teams from the league stage will have the change to qualify for the playoffs, opening up opportunities for more franchises to compete for the trophy.
Teams finishing fifth to eighth will battle in Play-in matches, with the winners progressing to the Eliminators. Teams finishing third and fourth will face off in a mini-qualifier. The winner moves ahead, while the loser still gets another chance later in the Playoffs.
The top two league-stage teams (1st and 2nd) will meet in Qualifier 1, with the winner going directly to the Final. The losing team will have another shot at the final via Qualifier 2.
The playoffs journey will now flow through three Eliminators and two Qualifiers.
Published on Aug 22, 2025