By SRTeam The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 10, held from December 2, 2023, to March 1, 2024, marked a significant milestone in the league’s history. This season was notable for its return to the traditional traveling caravan format, allowing fans across 12 cities to witness the action live. The competition was intense, culminating in Puneri Paltan clinching their first-ever PKL title.
Champion of PKL Season 10 {2023-24}: Puneri Paltan
Puneri Paltan emerged victorious in Season 10, defeating Haryana Steelers with a scoreline of 28–25 in the final match held at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad on March 1, 2024. The team’s success was spearheaded by their captain, Aslam Inamdar, who led by example throughout the season. In the final, Pankaj Mohite was instrumental, contributing nine raid points, while Gaurav Khatri bolstered the defense with four tackle points.
Runner-Up of PKL Season 10: Haryana Steelers
Haryana Steelers, under the leadership of Manpreet Singh, showcased remarkable consistency and resilience throughout the season. Their journey to the finals was characterized by strategic gameplay and standout performances from key players. Despite their efforts, they were unable to overcome the formidable Puneri Paltan in the final, resulting in a second-place finish.
Prize Money Distribution
The financial rewards for Season 10 were substantial, reflecting the league’s commitment to promoting kabaddi as a professional sport:
- Champions (Puneri Paltan): ₹3 crore
- Runner-Up (Haryana Steelers): ₹1.8 crore
- Third Place: ₹1.2 crore
- Fourth Place: ₹80 lakh
Participating Teams
Season 10 featured 12 teams, each representing different cities across India. Below is a table detailing the teams, their captains, and home cities:
| Team Name | Captain | City |
|---|---|---|
| Puneri Paltan | Aslam Inamdar | Pune |
| Haryana Steelers | Manpreet Singh | Panchkula |
| Bengaluru Bulls | Mahender Singh | Bengaluru |
| UP Yoddha | Nitesh Kumar | Lucknow |
| Tamil Thalaivas | Sagar | Chennai |
| Dabang Delhi K.C. | Naveen Kumar | Delhi |
| Bengal Warriors | Maninder Singh | Kolkata |
| U Mumba | Surinder Singh | Mumbai |
| Jaipur Pink Panthers | Sunil Kumar | Jaipur |
| Gujarat Giants | Chandran Ranjit | Ahmedabad |
| Patna Pirates | Neeraj Kumar | Patna |
| Telugu Titans | Ravinder Pahal | Hyderabad |
Top Performers
- Best Raider: Ashu Malik of Dabang Delhi K.C. dominated the raiding charts, accumulating 280 points in 23 matches. His agility and tactical acumen were pivotal in his team’s performance.
- Best Defender: Mohammadreza Chiyaneh of Puneri Paltan led the defense with 99 tackle points, showcasing exceptional defensive skills and consistency.
- Most Valuable Player (MVP): Aslam Inamdar was honored as the MVP for his outstanding all-round performance throughout the season, contributing significantly in both raids and tackles.
Season Highlights
- Puneri Paltan’s Resilience: The team’s ability to clinch the title after losing the previous season’s final underscored their determination and strategic excellence.
- Emergence of New Talent: Season 10 witnessed the rise of young players who made significant contributions to their teams, adding depth and excitement to the league.
- Return to Caravan Format: The reinstatement of the traveling caravan format allowed fans across various cities to engage with the league, enhancing the overall experience.
Conclusion
PKL Season 10 was a landmark edition that showcased the growing competitiveness and popularity of kabaddi in India. Puneri Paltan’s maiden title, achieved through resilience and teamwork, set new benchmarks in the sport. The season’s success not only entertained fans but also inspired aspiring athletes, contributing to the continued resurgence of kabaddi in the national sporting landscape.