New Delhi, March 23 (NationPress) The eagerly awaited Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) introduced its Championship Trophy during a ceremony held this Sunday, with the league set to kick off on April 18 in Gurugram. This league has attracted international attention, featuring teams from countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Argentina, Germany, England, Norway, and Poland.

The trophy was unveiled by special guest D. Suresh, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Government of Haryana, along with Deepak Hooda, former captain of the Indian kabaddi team, and Kanthi D. Suresh, president of the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA).

During the trophy launch, D. Suresh remarked, "Kabaddi is a vital component of India's sports culture, and it’s inspiring to witness a global initiative like GI-PKL emerge in Haryana. This project aims to not only provide a platform for international players but also enhance Kabaddi's potential recognition as an Olympic sport."

While both men’s and women’s teams will compete for their respective titles, the honor of lifting the magnificent Championship Trophy will go to only one team.

Deepak Hooda expressed, "This league will serve as an excellent opportunity for emerging athletes. Kabaddi is a sport deeply embedded in rural areas and is played throughout the nation. I am confident that our players will elevate this league and the sport itself to new heights."

HIPSA has also announced six teams for women and six corresponding teams for men, each named to reflect their regional heritage.

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

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

Earlier this year, GI-PKL revealed the captains for all franchises. Shiv Prashad will captain the Bhojpuri Leopards, while Vikash Dahiya will lead the Haryanvi Sharks. The Marathi Vultures and Punjabi Tigers have selected Kapil Narwal and Sawin Narwal as their captains, respectively. Sunil Narwal will lead the Tamil Lions and Sandeep Kandola will be at the helm of the Telugu Panthers.

Pushpa Rana will captain the Haryanvi Eagles, and Meena Kadyan will lead the Bhojpuri Leopardess. The Marathi Falcons and Punjabi Tigress have appointed Tanu Sharma and Meera as their captains, respectively. Julie Bhati will oversee the Telugu Cheetahs, while Suman will captain the Tamil Lioness.

In March 2024, HIPSA ensured that Kabaddi was recognized in the Guinness World Record during an event held at Panchkula's Tau Devilal Stadium, which was attended by the Governor of Haryana, Shree Bandaru Dattatreya.

The inaugural season of GI-PKL, featuring 12 teams, will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network.