The highly anticipated GI-PKL took a major step forward with a grand trophy unveiling in Delhi, marking the countdown to its inaugural season.
The Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) showcased its Championship Trophy in a special ceremony held in Delhi on Sunday, setting the stage for its much-awaited kickoff on April 18 in Gurugram. The tournament has already drawn international attention, with teams from Egypt, Kenya, Argentina, Germany, England, Norway, and Poland participating, reported aninews.in.
A Grand Moment for Global Kabaddi
The trophy unveiling ceremony was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including D Suresh, IAS, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Government of Haryana, and former Indian Kabaddi team captain Deepak Hooda. They joined Kanthi D. Suresh, President of the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA), in revealing the prestigious trophy.
Speaking at the event, D Suresh emphasized the cultural significance of Kabaddi, stating, “Kabaddi is an integral part of India’s sporting heritage, and it is heartening to see a global platform like GI-PKL take shape in Haryana. This initiative will provide international athletes with a stage while also pushing Kabaddi toward Olympic recognition.”
A Unique Championship Format
Unlike other tournaments, GI-PKL will crown only one team with the ultimate Championship Trophy, despite separate winners for the men’s and women’s categories.
Former Indian captain Deepak Hooda praised the league’s vision, saying, “This league is a great platform for upcoming athletes. Kabaddi, deeply rooted in India’s rural areas, is played nationwide. I believe this tournament will take the sport to new heights.”
Teams and Captains Announced
The inaugural GI-PKL season will feature 12 teams (six men’s and six women’s), strategically named to reflect their regional identities.
Women’s Teams:
- Marathi Falcons – Captain: Tanu Sharma
- Bhojpuri Leopardess – Captain: Meena Kadyan
- Telugu Cheetahs – Captain: Julie Bhati
- Tamil Lioness – Captain: Suman
- Punjabi Tigress – Captain: Meera
- Haryanvi Eagles – Captain: Pushpa Rana
Men’s Teams:
- Marathi Vultures – Captain: Kapil Narwal
- Bhojpuri Leopards – Captain: Shiv Prashad
- Telugu Panthers – Captain: Sandeep Kandola
- Tamil Lions – Captain: Sunil Narwal
- Punjabi Tigers – Captain: Sawin Narwal
- Haryanvi Sharks – Captain: Vikash Dahiya
The GI-PKL matches will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network, bringing the tournament to a global audience.
HIPSA’s Continued Commitment to Kabaddi
HIPSA has been actively promoting Kabaddi worldwide. In March 2024, it played a key role in securing Kabaddi’s inclusion in the Guinness World Record at an event in Panchkula’s Tau Devilal Stadium, attended by Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya.
As the countdown to April 18 begins, GI-PKL is set to revolutionize Kabaddi on a global scale.
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