The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 11 auction was a landmark event, with unprecedented records and strategic maneuvers shaping the future of the league. From record-breaking bids to the strategic use of Final Bid Match (FBM) cards, here are the top 10 highlights from this thrilling auction.
Sachin Tanwar became the most expensive player in PKL history, fetching ₹2.15 crore from Tamil Thalaivas, setting a new benchmark for Indian kabaddi players.
Iranian defender Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh was snapped up by Haryana Steelers for ₹2.07 crore, making him the first foreign player to exceed ₹2 crore in consecutive auctions.
This auction saw an unprecedented eight players entering the ₹1 crore club, highlighting the growing financial stakes and competitiveness in PKL Season 11.
U Mumba acquired Sunil Kumar for ₹1.015 crore, making him the most expensive Indian defender in PKL history, showcasing the increasing value of defensive prowess.
PKL’s all-time top raider, Pardeep Narwal, was bought by Bengaluru Bulls for ₹70 lakh, marking a significant reunion with his original team, aiming for more raid points.
Maninder Singh, a key figure for Bengal Warriorz, was re-signed by the team for ₹1.15 crore, continuing his journey with a franchise he considers home.
Three FBM cards were strategically utilized by Bengal Warriorz, Telugu Titans, and Gujarat Giants, retaining key players like Maninder Singh, Pawan Sehrawat, and Sombir.
The auction highlighted the growing influence of foreign players in PKL, with several international stars fetching high bids and solidifying their importance in the league.
Veteran defender Surjeet Singh was acquired by Jaipur Pink Panthers for ₹60 lakh, underscoring the demand for experienced players to balance youthful squads.
PKL Commissioner Anupam Goswami expressed pride in the auction's outcome, emphasizing the league’s evolution with multiple records being shattered, setting the stage for an exhilarating Season 11.