By SRTeam The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) continued its meteoric rise in popularity with the commencement of Season 3 on January 30, 2016. The league, known for revitalizing the traditional Indian sport of kabaddi, featured eight teams competing in a double round-robin format, followed by playoffs. The season concluded with a thrilling finale on March 5, 2016, marking a significant chapter in PKL history.
Champion of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 3 {2016}: Patna Pirates
Patna Pirates clinched their maiden PKL title by defeating U Mumba with a narrow margin of 31–28 in the final match held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. Under the leadership of captain Manpreet Singh and the exceptional raiding prowess of Pardeep Narwal, the Pirates showcased resilience and strategic acumen throughout the season, culminating in their well-deserved victory.
Runner-Up of PKL Season 2: U Mumba
U Mumba, the defending champions from Season 2, once again demonstrated their consistency by reaching the finals. Led by the experienced Anup Kumar, U Mumba fought valiantly in the final but fell short against the determined Patna Pirates. Their journey to the finals was marked by tactical gameplay and standout performances, reinforcing their status as one of the league’s formidable teams.
Prize Money Distribution
The financial rewards for Season 3 were substantial, reflecting the league’s growth and the increasing competitiveness among teams:
- Champions (Patna Pirates): ₹1 crore
- Runner-Up (U Mumba): ₹50 lakh
- Third Place (Bengaluru Bulls): ₹30 lakh
- Fourth Place (Puneri Paltan): ₹20 lakh
Participating Teams
The eight franchises represented various cities across India, each bringing unique flair and fan support. Below is a table detailing the teams, their captains, and home cities:
| Team Name | Captain | City |
|---|---|---|
| Patna Pirates | Manpreet Singh | Patna |
| U Mumba | Anup Kumar | Mumbai |
| Bengaluru Bulls | Surjeet Narwal | Bengaluru |
| Puneri Paltan | Manjeet Chhillar | Pune |
| Telugu Titans | Sandeep Narwal | Hyderabad |
| Jaipur Pink Panthers | Jasvir Singh | Jaipur |
| Dabang Delhi | Kashiling Adake | Delhi |
| Bengal Warriors | Nilesh Shinde | Kolkata |
Top Performers
- Best Raider: Pardeep Narwal of Patna Pirates emerged as the top raider, amassing 116 raid points. His agility and tactical intelligence were instrumental in the Pirates’ successful campaign.
- Best Defender: Manjeet Chhillar of Puneri Paltan led the defense with 61 tackle points, showcasing exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the mat.
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Rohit Kumar of Patna Pirates was honored as the MVP for his outstanding all-round performance, contributing significantly in both offense and defense.
Season Highlights
- Patna Pirates’ Dominance: The Pirates topped the league stage with consistent performances, setting the foundation for their championship run.
- Emergence of New Talent: The season witnessed the rise of young players who made significant contributions to their teams, adding depth and excitement to the league.
- Increased Fan Engagement: The league’s popularity soared, with matches broadcast in multiple languages, attracting a diverse and expansive audience.
Conclusion
Season 3 of the Pro Kabaddi League not only elevated the sport’s profile but also introduced new narratives and rivalries that enriched the competition. Patna Pirates’ triumph under the leadership of Manpreet Singh and the exceptional performance of Pardeep Narwal 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 India’s sporting landscape