What happened at the PKL 12 auction? Highlights from Day 1 and Aanil Mohan's historic Day 2!
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Synopsis
The PKL 12 auction delivered electrifying moments as franchises bid fiercely to assemble competitive teams. With 10 Crorepatis emerging, including Mohammadreza Shadloui's record bid, and Aanil Mohan's historic signing, the league is set for an exciting season ahead.
Key Takeaways
- 10 Crorepatis emerged during the auction.
- Mohammadreza Shadloui fetched the highest bid at INR 2.23 Crores.
- Aanil Mohan's bid of INR 78 Lakhs set a record for Category D.
- The Final Bid Match (FBM) rule allows teams to retain players.
- Strong interest was shown in Categories C and D.
Mumbai, June 1 (NationPress) The thrilling PKL Season 12 Player Auction wrapped up on Sunday after a weekend filled with fierce bidding wars, as the 12 franchises assembled teams poised for a competitive upcoming season. Day 1 showcased 10 Crorepatis, with two-time champion Mohammadreza Shadloui joining the Gujarat Giants for an astonishing INR 2.23 Crores.
Also making waves in the 2 Crore bracket was Devank Dalal, the Best Raider from PKL 11, who was secured by Bengal Warriorz for INR 2.205 Crores, ranking him as the fifth-most expensive player in this auction, following Shadloui’s record-setting bid.
The newly implemented Final Bid Match (FBM) rule played a significant role in the auction, enabling teams to reclaim their released players by matching the final bid price for either one or two seasons. As a result, five players were retained for two seasons while nine others were kept for one.
Category C proved to be a lucrative opportunity for all-rounders. Nitin Rawal joined Jaipur Pink Panthers for INR 50 Lakhs, Gurdeep was signed by Puneri Paltan for INR 47.10 Lakhs, and Dheeraj will represent the Bengaluru Bulls after being acquired for INR 40.20 Lakhs.
However, it was raider Akash Shinde who commanded the highest bid in this category, moving to Bengaluru Bulls for INR 53.10 Lakhs.
One of the most unexpected moments of the auction saw U Mumba winning the bidding battle for Aanil Mohan, securing him for a remarkable INR 78 Lakhs – the highest bid in Category D in PKL history.
On Day 2, Aanil Mohan earned the highest bid across both categories, while Uday Parte received the second-highest in Category D, being signed by Jaipur Pink Panthers for INR 50.10 Lakhs.
Anupam Goswami, the League Commissioner of Pro Kabaddi League, commented on the auction, stating, “It’s encouraging to see the momentum from Day 1 of the PKL 12 Player Auction carry into Day 2. Teams have shown keen interest in Categories C and D, particularly with the INR 78 lakhAanil Mohan, marking a historic milestone for a Category D player in our League’s history. This influx of fresh talent is vital for building competitive squads in the long run, and the emergence of 10 ‘Crorepati’ players this season indicates a well-balanced market where established athletes and newcomers are both valued appropriately. This sets the stage for another thrilling season ahead.”
Aanil Mohan, thrilled about signing with U Mumba, expressed, "I am incredibly excited to be part of the PKL and see my dedication paying off. I’m grateful to U Mumba for their belief in me for the upcoming season, and I aim to make my mark. U Mumba has fostered numerous raiding stars in the past, and I hope to follow in their footsteps. Competing in this league is a dream come true, and I will strive to repay the faith they have in me."
Point of View
I believe the PKL 12 auction exemplifies the dynamic nature of Indian sports. The infusion of fresh talent alongside established stars speaks volumes about the league's growth and competitiveness. The emergence of 10 Crorepatis not only elevates individual players but also enhances the overall quality of the tournament, promising an exciting season ahead.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the top players in the PKL 12 auction?
The auction highlighted 10 Crorepatis, with key players including Mohammadreza Shadloui joining Gujarat Giants for INR 2.23 Crores and Aanil Mohan making history with U Mumba for INR 78 Lakhs.
What is the Final Bid Match rule?
The Final Bid Match (FBM) rule allows teams to regain released players by matching the final bid price for either one or two seasons.
How did players in Category C perform?
Category C saw significant bids, with Nitin Rawal, Gurdeep, and Dheeraj securing high amounts, while Akash Shinde commanded the top bid of INR 53.10 Lakhs.
What impact does the auction have on the upcoming season?
The auction, featuring a blend of established stars and new talent, sets the stage for a competitive PKL 12 season, reflecting the growing interest in kabaddi.
What did Aanil Mohan say about his signing?
Aanil Mohan expressed excitement about joining U Mumba, calling it a dream come true and acknowledging the franchise's history of nurturing raiding talent.
