By SRTeam The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 4, held from June 25 to July 31, 2016, marked a significant chapter in the evolution of kabaddi as a mainstream sport in India. Building upon the momentum of previous seasons, Season 4 showcased intense competition, exceptional athleticism, and strategic brilliance, culminating in a historic victory for the Patna Pirates.
Champion of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 4 {2016}: Patna Pirates
Patna Pirates etched their name in PKL winner history by becoming the first team to secure back-to-back titles. Under the astute leadership of captain Dharmaraj Cheralathan, the Pirates defeated Jaipur Pink Panthers with a scoreline of 37–29 in the final match held at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad on July 31, 2016. The team’s aggressive approach and cohesive gameplay were pivotal in their successful title defense.
Runner-Up of PKL Season 4: Jaipur Pink Panthers
Jaipur Pink Panthers, led by captain Jasvir Singh, showcased resilience and tactical acumen throughout the season. Their journey to the finals was marked by consistent performances and strategic victories. Despite their efforts, the Panthers were unable to overcome the formidable Pirates in the final, settling for the runner-up position.
Prize Money Distribution
The financial rewards for Season 4 reflected the league’s commitment to recognizing and promoting excellence in kabaddi:
- Champions (Patna Pirates): ₹1 crore
- Runner-Up (Jaipur Pink Panthers): ₹50 lakh
- Third Place (Puneri Paltan): ₹30 lakh
- Fourth Place (Telugu Titans): ₹20 lakh
Participating Teams
The league featured eight franchises representing various cities across India. Each team brought its unique flair and fan base, contributing to the league’s diverse and vibrant atmosphere. Below is a table detailing the teams, their captains, and home cities:
| Team Name | Captain | City |
|---|---|---|
| Patna Pirates | Dharmaraj Cheralathan | Patna |
| Jaipur Pink Panthers | Jasvir Singh | Jaipur |
| Puneri Paltan | Manjeet Chhillar | Pune |
| Telugu Titans | Rahul Chaudhari | Hyderabad |
| U Mumba | Anup Kumar | Mumbai |
| Bengaluru Bulls | Surender Nada | Bengaluru |
| Dabang Delhi | Meraj Sheykh | Delhi |
| Bengal Warriors | Nilesh Shinde | Kolkata |
Top Performers
- Best Raider: Rahul Chaudhari of Telugu Titans emerged as the top raider of the season, amassing 146 raid points. His agility and tactical intelligence made him a formidable force on the mat.
- Best Defender: Fazel Atrachali of Patna Pirates led the defense with 52 tackle points, showcasing exceptional defensive skills and contributing significantly to his team’s success.
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Pardeep Narwal of Patna Pirates was honored as the MVP for his outstanding all-round performance, including a remarkable 17 points in the final match.
Season Highlights
- Patna Pirates’ Historic Victory: The Pirates’ consecutive title wins underscored their dominance and strategic excellence in the league.
- Emergence of New Talent: Season 4 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 continued to soar, with matches broadcast in multiple languages, attracting a diverse and expansive audience.
Conclusion
Season 4 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 Dharmaraj Cheralathan and the exceptional performance of players like Pardeep Narwal exemplified teamwork and strategic brilliance. The league’s success continued to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans, ensuring kabaddi’s enduring legacy in India’s sporting landscape.