Vizag, Aug 29 (PTI) The much-anticipated Season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is set to open with an electrifying clash between home favourites Telugu Titans and formidable rivals Tamil Thalaivas this Friday.
The league's return to Vizag, after a seven-year hiatus, promises a captivating start at the Vishwanadh Sports Club.
Following this, the second match of the day will feature a showdown between the Bengaluru Bulls and Puneri Paltan.
Telugu Titans captain Vijay Malik expressed that the upcoming season is set to be highly competitive.
"Every team has bolstered its lineup, raising the overall preparation level across the league.
We players are aware that each match will be a true test, and this undoubtedly makes this season the most thrilling yet in the Pro Kabaddi League – every victory must be truly earned," Malik noted.
Star raider Pawan Sehrawat, leading the Thalaivas, remarked that beginning the season against the host team adds an extra layer of excitement.
"We acknowledge the crowd's support will heavily lean towards them, yet this only spurs us to push harder.
Contests like these set the season's tone, and we eagerly look forward to providing the fans with an excellent spectacle," Sehrawat stated.
In tribute to the Indian Armed Forces, PKL saw its 12 captains visit the iconic INS Kursura – a celebrated submarine that played a key role during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 through its pivotal patrol missions.
Post the Vizag leg, which runs from August 29 to September 11, the League will advance to Jaipur (September 12 to September 28), Chennai (September 29 to October 10), and New Delhi (October 11 to October 23).
The decision regarding the venue for the playoffs and grand finale remains pending.
Anupam Goswami, the League Chairman, unveiled an all-new format designed to connect fans more closely with the action.
"The significance of each match has increased, amplifying the intensity of this season.
The league's much-anticipated return to Vizag aligns with our National Sports Day celebrations, where we honour legendary athletes, making the commencement of this edition exceedingly exciting," Goswami commented.
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