By SRTeam The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) returned for its second season in 2015, building upon the resounding success of its inaugural edition. The league continued to elevate the traditional sport of kabaddi, captivating audiences nationwide with intense matches and exceptional athleticism. Season 2 commenced on July 18, 2015, and concluded with a thrilling finale on August 23, 2015.
Champion of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 2 {2015}: U Mumba
U Mumba, under the astute leadership of captain Anup Kumar, emerged as the champions of PKL Season 2. They secured their maiden title by defeating the Bengaluru Bulls with a scoreline of 36–30 in the final match held at the NSCI Dome in Mumbai. U Mumba’s consistent performance throughout the season culminated in this well-deserved victory.
Runner-Up of PKL Season 2: Bengaluru Bulls
The Bengaluru Bulls, captained by the formidable Manjeet Chhillar, showcased remarkable resilience and skill to reach the finals. Despite their valiant efforts, they fell short against U Mumba in the championship match. Their journey to the final was marked by strategic gameplay and standout performances, particularly from Chhillar, who was later named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the season.
Prize Money Distribution
The Pro Kabaddi League Season 2 featured a substantial prize pool, rewarding the top teams for their exceptional performances:
- Champions (U Mumba): ₹1 crore
- Runner-Up (Bengaluru Bulls): ₹50 lakh
- Third Place (Telugu Titans): ₹30 lakh
- Fourth Place (Patna Pirates): ₹20 lakh
Participating Teams
The league comprised eight franchises, each representing different cities across India. Below is a table detailing the teams, their captains, and home cities:
| Team Name | Captain | City |
|---|---|---|
| U Mumba | Anup Kumar | Mumbai |
| Bengaluru Bulls | Manjeet Chhillar | Bengaluru |
| Telugu Titans | Meraj Sheykh | Hyderabad |
| Patna Pirates | Rakesh Kumar | Patna |
| Jaipur Pink Panthers | Navneet Gautam | Jaipur |
| Dabang Delhi | Ravinder Pahal | Delhi |
| Bengal Warriors | Dinesh Kumar | Kolkata |
| Puneri Paltan | Wazir Singh | Pune |
Top Performers
- Best Raider: Kashiling Adake of Dabang Delhi emerged as the top raider of the season, amassing 114 raid points. His agility and tactical acumen made him a formidable force on the mat.
- Best Defender: Ravinder Pahal, also from Dabang Delhi, led the defense with 60 tackle points, showcasing exceptional defensive skills and earning recognition as one of the league’s premier defenders.
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Manjeet Chhillar of Bengaluru Bulls was honored as the MVP for his all-round performance, contributing significantly in both offense and defense.
Season Highlights
Season 2 of the PKL was marked by heightened competition and several memorable moments:
- U Mumba’s Consistency: U Mumba dominated the league stage, finishing at the top of the points table, which set the tone for their successful campaign.
- Emergence of New Talent: The season witnessed the rise of new talents who made significant contributions to their teams, adding depth and excitement to the league.
- Increased Viewership: The league’s popularity soared, with matches broadcast in multiple languages, attracting a diverse and expansive audience.
Conclusion
The second season of the Pro Kabaddi League solidified the sport’s resurgence in India, combining traditional elements with modern sports entertainment. U Mumba’s triumph, under the leadership of Anup Kumar, exemplified teamwork and strategic excellence. The league’s success continued to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans, ensuring kabaddi’s enduring legacy in the country’s sporting landscape.