The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) is set to reach a defining milestone with its player auction scheduled for December 28, 2025, as the league moves steadily toward its inaugural season.
With eight franchises in contention and a total player purse of ₹4 crore, the auction is expected to play a crucial role in shaping team identities and determining the competitive balance of the league's debut campaign.
The upcoming auction follows the successful completion of Zone 4 and Central trials in Sonipat, which witnessed an overwhelming response from across the country. More than 3,500 players registered for the trials, underlining the growing popularity of kabaddi and the excitement surrounding the new league. Over 1,500 athletes took part in the Central trials alone,
making it one of the most extensive scouting exercises conducted for a domestic kabaddi competition.
After a rigorous and multi-stage evaluation process, over 110 players have already been shortlisted, while the final auction pool is expected to expand to between 200 and 250 players across various categories. This pool will include a healthy mix of emerging grassroots talent and experienced professional players, offering franchises flexibility in their squad-building strategies.
A key highlight of the Kabaddi Champions League is the inclusion of India's top kabaddi players and seasoned professionals who have competed in national tournaments and leading professional leagues. Their participation is expected to raise the competitive intensity of the league, while also providing younger players with the opportunity to learn and compete alongside established names.
The trials were conducted across designated venues in and around Sonipat, with the process overseen by renowned former kabaddi players and seasoned experts. Their involvement ensured a structured, transparent and merit-based selection system, lending credibility to the league's scouting framework and reinforcing confidence among players and stakeholders.
At the auction, franchises will assemble balanced squads comprising raiders, defenders and all-rounders through a live bidding format. Teams will operate within prescribed purse limits and adhere to league-defined squad composition guidelines, which are expected to be formally communicated ahead of the auction. Strategic decision-making will be key, as franchises balance experience, youth and budget management.
Conceptualised to strengthen kabaddi's grassroots-to-professional pathway, the Kabaddi Champions League aims to provide sustained competitive exposure and clear career progression for players.
The December 28 auction is therefore more than a player sale; it represents a foundational step in building the league's sporting ecosystem. Further details regarding the auction venue, schedule and operational framework are expected to be announced in the coming days.
