In the build-up to the season opener, the league’s official Instagram hosted a lively session featuring Pawan Sehrawat of Tamil Thalaivas and Vijay Malik of Telugu Titans, former teammates who will now face off as rivals. The two star raiders shared their thoughts, insights, and mutual respect ahead of the much-anticipated clash
Matches in the league stage are scheduled across Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai, and New Delhi
The Pro Kabaddi League is set to return with a bang as Season 12 kicks off on August 29 with a high-octane southern derby between Tamil Thalaivas and Telugu Titans in Visakhapatnam. With the league stage scheduled to span Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai, and New Delhi, PKL’s return to these fan-favourite venues has sparked widespread excitement among players and supporters alike.
In the build-up to the season opener, the league’s official Instagram hosted a lively session featuring Pawan Sehrawat of Tamil Thalaivas and Vijay Malik of Telugu Titans, former teammates who will now face off as rivals. The two star raiders shared their thoughts, insights, and mutual respect ahead of the much-anticipated clash.
“This opening match is special for me,” said Pawan Sehrawat, who returns to Tamil Thalaivas after an injury-curtailed stint with the team in season 9. “I couldn’t spend much time on the mat last time. Now I have a chance to finish what I started."
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Reflecting on the team’s prospects, Sehrawat expressed confidence in the revamped Thalaivas line-up. “The team is well-balanced, with experienced names like Arjun Deshwal, Narendra Kandola, as well as young stars in Nitesh Kumar. We're ready,” he added.
The fixture carries added significance for Sehrawat, who spent the last two seasons with the Telugu Titans. “Playing against my former team in front of their home fans in Vizag — it’s going to be intense. But I know I’ll also get some love from the Titans supporters,” he said.
On the other side, Vijay Malik, now at the helm of the Titans’ raiding department, is optimistic about the season ahead. “Starting the season at home is a big boost. The Telugu Titans fans are among the most passionate in the league. The energy they bring gives us that extra edge,” he said. “We’ve got a strong unit and a great mix this season. The goal is clear — we’re going for the trophy.”
With both Chennai and Visakhapatnam serving as host cities this season, both teams will enjoy the rare privilege of playing in front of their home crowds. For Sehrawat, who missed that opportunity during his last stint with the Thalaivas, it’s a long-awaited moment.
As for the Titans, Malik believes the new season marks a transformative phase for the squad. “Leadership is about responsibility, yes, but it’s also about unity. Whether senior or junior, our team is one tight unit. We support each other on and off the mat.”
Both players also shared warm messages for Pardeep Narwal, who announced his retirement after the PKL 12 Player Auction. “We’ll miss his signature Dubki,” Pawan said. “Hope to see him in some role, still connected to Kabaddi.”
As the friendly banter came to a close, Pawan and Vijay said in unison, “This time, the raiders will attack.”
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