PKL 2025: U Mumba vs Puneri Paltan rivalry set to ignite Pro Kabaddi League season 12
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is set to kick off its twelfth season, and all eyes are on the storied rivalry between two of Maharashtra based teams: U Mumba and Puneri Paltan.
The two former champions will clash in a highly anticipated opening-day bout, rekindling a classic derby that represents the state’s deep-rooted passion for the sport. This contest, scheduled for September 18 at the Sawai Mansingh Indoor Stadium in Jaipur, marks a thrilling return to the mat for both sides in PKL 12.
Maharashtra has long been a powerhouse in Kabaddi, and its legacy is on full display this season with the state having the second-highest number of players in the league. Leading the charge are Mumba and Paltan, who have consistently been top contenders. The pressure is on for both teams to not just perform well, but to live up to the immense expectations of their fans.
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The matchup is packed with star power, pitting PKL’s most successful captain, Sunil Kumar of U Mumba, against Puneri Paltan’s dynamic raider and captain, Aslam Inamdar.
Inamdar, who led his team to the Season 10 trophy and became the first Maharashtrian captain to win the title, is back from injury and eager to prove himself. “Being born and raised in Maharashtra, it was always my dream to represent the state in Kabaddi,” Inamdar said. “To once again stand on such a big stage… is a very special feeling for me.”
The coaching benches are equally compelling. Paltan will be guided by Kabaddi legend and former India international Ajay Thakur in his first full-time coaching role. Across the mat, Mumba will have head coach Anil Chaprana, who returns to lead the team after serving as an assistant.
“This team has entrusted me with responsibility once again, and that fills me with excitement,” Chaprana stated, emphasising his goal to instill a “never-give-up attitude” in his players.
As the teams prepare, both captains shared their high hopes. U Mumba’s Sunil Kumar noted the immense pride he feels in leading his team. “We have prepared with full focus and determination, and our goal this season is to go beyond the playoffs and bring the trophy back to Mumbai,” he said.
With the stage set and two of Kabaddi’s most storied franchises ready to battle, the opening game promises a high-octane spectacle that fans won’t want to miss.
The first Maharashtra derby will be hosted by Jaipur on September 18, while on October 8, Chennai will set the stage for the return fixture.
Published on Aug 21, 2025