What Transformations Are Happening in PKL's Referee Training?

Visakhapatnam, Sep 3 (NationPress) As the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 progresses, a committed assembly of referees from Kashmir to Kanyakumari has successfully concluded an exhaustive 12-day training camp that marks a pivotal change in kabaddi officiating.

This comprehensive initiative, which ran from August 15 to August 27 in Hyderabad, saw the participation of 23 newcomers, bringing the total to 45 officials. This diverse group strikes a remarkable balance between emerging talent and experienced referees, with Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra each contributing four officials, showcasing the nationwide dedication to officiating in this league.

“In light of the alterations to certain rules and formats this season, we have expanded our training cohort,” stated E. Prasad Rao, the Technical Director of the PKL. He emphasized that the changes in rules have made it necessary to enhance the training program. The selection process was rigorous, starting with online training before finalizing the group for intensive in-person sessions.

A key aspect of this training is the adaptation to PKL's new tiebreaker format, which has altered every match into what officials refer to as a ‘do or die’ situation. “Every match now can be considered a do or die match. Each contest must be resolved according to the tiebreaker rule,” emphasized ‘Kabaddi’ Rao, highlighting the increased responsibility now placed on officials.

The tiebreaker format has introduced significant complexities: five raids per team, no player eliminations during tiebreakers, and the baulk line becoming the bonus line. “So many rules have changed in a tiebreaker,” making the officials' roles ‘extremely critical’, reiterated Mr. Rao.

The training camp's approach mirrors the PKL's shift from mere sporting competition to precision-driven entertainment. With numerous matches scheduled per venue, officials must make decisions with pinpoint accuracy. “Understanding how to proceed and how quickly to gather information,” he noted, stressing that every procedural detail has been ‘meticulously calculated with time and methodology’.

The first match on Wednesday will feature Puneri Paltan facing off against Bengal Warriorz, aiming to build on their current momentum with two consecutive victories. However, they will face a formidable opponent in the Warriorz, led by Devank Dalal, who recently competed fiercely against the defending champions Haryana Steelers.

The second match will pit U Mumba against the Haryana Steelers in a battle for dominance. Following their defeat against the Warriorz, the Steelers will confront an in-form U Mumba, which boasts two wins in two matches, spearheaded by the experienced Sunil Kumar.