PKL Auction 2025: Who are the most expensive foreign players in Pro Kabaddi League history?

The Pro Kabaddi League has consistently attracted top foreign talent, with franchises investing heavily to add international experience to their squads. The PKL 12 auction promises more big spends as all 12 teams aim to strengthen their lineups.

Here are the five most expensive international players in PKL history:

Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh (Rs 2.35 crore)

Iran’s allrounder Shadloui is the priciest foreign player ever in PKL. Puneri Paltan bought him for Rs 2.35 crore last season, a move that paid off as he helped the team win its first title. Haryana Steelers spent Rs 2.07 crore on him in the last auction and won the championship. He is set to be auctioned again this year.

Fazel Atrachali (Rs 1.38 crore)

Atrachali entered the Rs 1 crore club in season six when U Mumba signed him. He remained the highest-paid defender when Puneri Paltan bought him for Rs 1.38 crore in season nine. That year, Paltan finished runner-up after losing the final to Jaipur Pink Panthers.

Lee Jang-kun (Rs 80.3 lakh)

South Korea’s Lee was the costliest pick in season five, retained by Bengal Warriors. A loyal franchise player, Lee spent six seasons with Bengal, helping the team reach the playoffs in season six.

Mohammad Esmaeil Nabibakhsh (Rs 77.75 lakh)

Bengal Warriors debuted Nabibakhsh in PKL by paying Rs 77.75 lakh in 2019. The investment paid dividends as Bengal won its maiden title that season.

Abozar Mighani (Rs 76 lakh)

Mighani joined PKL with Gujarat Giants in 2017 (season five) and was bought by Telugu Titans for Rs 76 lakh the next year. However, the Titans missed the playoffs that season.