GI-PKL unveils captains of men’s and women’s teams ahead of inaugural season

GI-PKL

Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League announces captains from 12 franchises

Gurugram (Haryana) [India], January 30: Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) on Thursday announced the captains of the men’s and women’s franchises ahead of the much awaited kick- off. The league will witness participation from countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Argentina, Taiwan, and Poland, amongst others showcasing the growing global reach of Kabaddi, in the quest to promote the sport globally.

The GI-PKL inaugural season

The GI-PKL inaugural season will feature 12 teams—six women’s teams and six corresponding men’s teams—each embodying the cultural and linguistic richness of India. The teams have been strategically named to reflect their regional identities:

Men’s Teams: Marathi Vultures, Bhojpuri Leopards, Telugu Panthers, Tamil Lions, Punjabi Tigers, and Haryanvi Sharks.

While Shiv Prashad has been handed the captain duties for Bhojpuri Leopards, Vikash Dahiya will lead Haryanvi Sharks. Marathi Vultures and Punjabi Tigers have named Kapil Narwal and Sawin Narwal as captains respectively. Sunil Narwal will lead Tamil Lions and Sandeep Kandola will captain Telugu Panthers

Women’s Teams: Marathi Falcons, Bhojpuri Leopardess, Telugu Cheetahs, Tamil Lioness, Punjabi Tigress, and Haryanvi Eagles.

Pushpa Rana will lead Haryanvi Eagles and Meena Kadyan will captain Bhojpuri Leopardess. Marathi Falcons and Punjabi Tigress have named Tanu Sharma and Meera as captains respectively. While Julie Bhati will lead Telugu Cheetahs, Suman will oversee the captain’s duties for Tamil Lioness.

All the captains boast of a strong record in the sport at both National and International levels.

Speaking about the captains Ms. Kanthi D. Suresh, President of the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA), said, “The announcement of captains marks an exciting milestone in GI-PKL’s journey. These players are not just leading their teams but are also playing a crucial role in inspiring them. We believe their leadership and dedication will set the tone for a competitive season.”

Each franchisee will own both a men’s and a women’s team, a first-of-its-kind arrangement in kabaddi, promoting equality and inclusivity.

Meanwhile, players have already begun rigorous training for the League and are leaving no stone unturned in their training. Sawin Narwal, Sandeep Kandola, Ajay Kumar, and Kapil Narwal are among the players who have started practicing . National gold medalists like M Anitha, Indra Rohini, Arul Santhiya, and Selvarebiksha have also commenced training sessions in their respective states.

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HIPSA’s past initiatives underline its commitment to Kabaddi’s global growth. In March 2024, HIPSA ensured the Sport of Kabaddi was included in the Guinness World Record for an event held in Panchkula’s Tau Devilal Stadium.

In December 2023, HIPSA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Haryana State Government to promote the sport of Kabaddi, globally..As per the MOU, HIPSA and the Haryana Government together shall endeavor to encourage and facilitate, as appropriate, the advancement of linkages and cooperation to promote Kabaddi as a sport across the globe, with a vision to also have the Sport of Kabaddi, included in the Summer Olympics.

Men’s Teams and Captains:

Marathi Vultures – Kapil Narwal
Bhojpuri Leopards – Shiv Prashad
Telugu Panthers – Sandeep Kandola
Tamil Lions – Sunil Narwal
Punjabi Tigers – Sawin Narwal
Haryanvi Sharks – Vikash Dahiya

Women’s Teams and Captains

Marathi Falcons – Tanu Sharma
Bhojpuri Leopardess – Meena Kadyan
Telugu Cheetahs – Julie Bhati
Tamil Lioness – Suman
Punjabi Tigress – Meera
Haryanvi Eagles – Pushpa Rana