PKL 2025: Player auction on 31 May & 1 June; Bengal Warriorz appoint Naveen Kumar as head coach

Mumbai: Mashal Sports is excited to announce the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 Player Auction, scheduled to take place on May 31 and June 1, 2025 in Mumbai. The Season 12 Auction comes after the successful conclusion of PKL Season 11, which saw Haryana Steelers win the trophy for the first time after beating three-time champions Patna Pirates in the final on December 29, 2024.

The league’s journey began in 2014, and over the past 11 Seasons, there have been 8 different champions. Season 11 of PKL – held from October 18, 2024 to December 29, 2024 – was a significant milestone, as the league entered its second decade, which further solidifies PKL’s position as one of India’s premier sporting leagues enabling sustained growth and interest in kabaddi. The upcoming Player Auction for PKL Season 12 gets the ball rolling for yet another glorious chapter of rivalries, a passionate title defence, and the unmatched energy of kabaddi fans from across India, and the globe.

Speaking on the same, Mr. Anupam Goswami, Business Head of Mashal and League Chairman of Pro Kabaddi League said, “We are happy to announce the dates for the PKL Season 12 Player Auction. The PKL Player Auction is the launch-pad for our teams to demonstrate their strategy, determination, and ambition to become high-performers for the upcoming Season. It also serves as a platform to showcase the wealth of global talent for India’s indigenous sport. We look forward to seeing how teams tap into our rich talent pool to build their squads at the upcoming PKL Season 12 Player Auction.”

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Meanwhile, Bengal Warriorz are delighted to announce the appointment of Naveen Kumar as the team’s new head coach for the next season of the Pro Kabaddi League. A decorated kabaddi veteran hailing from Haryana, with an illustrious career both as a player and a coach, Naveen Kumar brings with him a wealth of experience and a winning mindset to the Warriorz franchise.

The new Bengal Warriorz coach has a remarkable track record in the sport and has represented India, and won Gold medals at multiple events, including at the 10th South Asian Games (2006), 15th Asian Games (2006), 2nd World Cup (2007), and 2nd Indoor Asian Games (2007). His know how combined with the winning mindset and fighting spirit will be beneficial to the Warriorz, who are one of the founding teams in the PKL.

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As a coach, Naveen Kumar has demonstrated exceptional leadership and tactical acumen. He is also well known for his ability to nurture and work with young talent, setting them up for a successful career. That apart, Naveen Kumar has also coached national and domestic teams, and guided them to multiple podium finishes. Among the teams he has coached, are the Indian Navy and Sports Authority of India teams. His ability to be a good mentor to young players, along with his familiarity and knowledge, will add value to the existing roster at Bengal Warriorz.

Speaking on his appointment, Naveen Kumar expressed his enthusiasm. “I am honoured to join the Bengal Warriorz as head coach. This is an exciting opportunity to develop a strong and competitive team. I look forward to working closely with the players and bringing out their best performances on the mat. We have lots of time before the new season, and we will work together to ensure that the Warriorz form a champion unit,” he said.

The team management is confident in Naveen Kumar’s ability to elevate the squad’s performance. Apurv Gupta, Director, Contact Sports and CEO Bengal Warriorz, stated, “Naveen Kumar brings with him an abundance of experience and strategic expertise, making him the perfect leader for our team. His winning mentality and ability to develop young talent will be instrumental in our journey to success this season.”