PKL 2025: Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Pullela Gopichand to launch Pro Kabaddi League season 12 on National Sports Day
The 12th season of the Pro Kabaddi League is set to be launched by teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Indian badminton stalwart Pullela Gopichand on the occasion of National Sports Day on Friday.
They will also be accompanied by hockey legend and former India captain Dhanraj Pillay and former kabaddi player Pardeep Narwal.
“On the auspicious occasion of National Sports Day, it is only fitting that this season of the Pro Kabaddi League begins in the presence of legends who have shaped India’s sporting journey,” said Anupam Goswami, Business Head – Mashal & League Commissioner, Pro Kabaddi.
“Their legacy reflects the very spirit PKL celebrates — honouring our roots while taking kabaddi to new heights. We’re privileged to have them with us as we usher in another thrilling season,” he added.
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The league stage of PKL 12 will kick off with clashes between Telugu Titans and Tamil Thalaivas, followed by Bengaluru Bulls and Puneri Paltan at the Vishwanadh Sports Club in Vizag.
The new edition will also see new competitive formats. For the first time, all matches will produce a result, with tiebreakers deciding drawn games even during the league stage.
A new ‘play-in’ phase has been introduced between the league and playoffs: the top two teams will qualify directly for the playoffs; 3rd and 4th will contest a mini-qualifier; while teams ranked 5th–8th will battle in the play-in.
Published on Aug 27, 2025