Dabang Delhi K.C. were crowned champions of the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 after a thrilling 31-28 victory against Puneri Paltan in the final. This is their second PKL title, having previously been crowned champions in Season 8,
when current Head Coach Joginder Narwal was their captain. Speaking on ‘KBD Live’, JioStar expert Rishank Devadiga and players from Dabang Delhi K.C. reflected on the win, resilience, and teamwork that propelled the side to a memorable championship.
Speaking on ‘KBD Live’, JioStar expert Rishank Devadiga shared his thoughts on the final: “Lifting the trophy brings an incomparable feeling after years of dedicated effort. The final match carries deep emotions, particularly because every player in the squad had their unique journey. Fazel Atrachali, Surjeet Singh, and Saurabh Nandal each had distinct stories, with Nandal experiencing his first PKL final. Captain Ashu Malik led Dabang Delhi K.C. to their second Pro Kabaddi League trophy, demonstrating how these individual paths united to form a cohesive team that ultimately secured the championship against Puneri Paltan."
Puneri Paltan appeared stronger on paper, but Delhi's experience prevailed: Rishank Devadiga
On Dabang Delhi K.C.’s hard-fought win: “Kabaddi demands exceptional fitness, exemplified by veterans like Fazel Atrachali. Captain Ashu Malik has emerged as a rising star this season. Delhi began the final with strong dominance, though injury challenges to their skipper tested their consistency against Puneri Paltan. Despite these hurdles, the team persevered to secure the win. I am confident Delhi will address these difficulties and return stronger next season to contend for their third PKL title.”
On the two teams in the final: “On paper, and based on seasonal performance, Puneri Paltan appeared stronger. However, Delhi’s experienced players prevailed over Pune’s younger squad. The match ultimately hinged on Aditya Shinde’s critical error; had he attempted a running hand touch instead of going too deep against Saurabh Nandal, he might have scored successfully. That single point could have tied the game, which we were all eagerly anticipating. Nevertheless, Dabang Delhi ultimately secured the victory and the trophy.”
On Dabang Delhi K.C.’s game plan: “While both teams were worthy finalists, Dabang Delhi proved more deserving through their exceptional execution. They entered the match with a well-defined strategy and implemented it perfectly from the outset. By establishing an early lead, they applied immediate pressure on Puneri Paltan, whose younger players often struggle when trailing. Delhi’s ability to execute their plan from the first whistle is what ultimately secured them their second Pro Kabaddi League championship.”
Joginder Narwal dedicates PKL Season 12 victory to Surjeet Singh; revales Rishank Devadiga
On the conversation with Dabang Delhi K.C’s Coach Joginder Narwal: “I spoke with Coach Joginder Narwal after the match, and he specifically dedicated this trophy to Surjeet Singh, who has been aiming for this PKL title for ten years. His outstanding performance in the final and consistent contributions all season made him truly deserving of this moment. Credit also goes to Fazel Atrachali for executing that decisive final tackle, which secured the championship for Delhi.”
Speaking on ‘KBD Live’, Dabang Delhi K.C. Captain Ashu Malik shared his thoughts: “This trophy represents the collective effort of our entire squad. Our Coach Joginder Narwal realized his dream of becoming a championship-winning coach, and I fulfilled my ambition of leading a team to PKL glory. But most significantly, this victory is for Surjeet bhai, who has been like an elder brother to all of us. After ten long seasons of perseverance, this moment finally fulfills his lifelong dream of becoming a PKL champion.”
Speaking on ‘KBD Live’, Dabang Delhi K.C. defender Fazel Atrachali shared his thoughts on the win: “I am extremely happy because nobody believed in our team at the start of this season. People called Dabang Delhi an ordinary team, but we demonstrated our unity and championship mentality. This second title is a special achievement, and now is the perfect time to celebrate our success together.”
Speaking on ‘KBD Live’, Surjeet Singh spoke about the win: “After our final practice session, Coach Joginder Narwal told me we were playing this final to win the trophy for me and that I had to lift it by any means. Against Puneri Paltan, we executed that vision perfectly, and my teammates and coach made it possible. I thank the entire team, management, and God for this opportunity to finally win the PKL Trophy after ten long seasons in the league.”
(With Inputs from Press Release)
