Six players from four districts of Himachal Pradesh will show their skills in the upcoming season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League. Players from Sirmaur, Mandi, Solan, and Una will represent various teams in the tournament scheduled to begin on August 29.
The state will also contribute three referees from Bilaspur, Sirmaur, and Shimla who will officiate matches during the tournament. The State Kabaddi Association has congratulated the selected players and officials for their achievement in reaching the premier kabaddi competition in the country.
State Kabaddi Association President Raj Kumar Branta and General Secretary Krishna Lal announced the team selections, revealing that Anil Jasta from Sirmaur will play for U Mumba, while Shivansh Thakur from Mandi has been selected for Bengal Warriors. Solan district will be represented by Kunal Mehta who will join Patna Pirates, and Mayank Saini will play for UP Yoddha. From Una district, Keshav will represent UP Yoddha and Vishal Bhardwaj will be part of the Puneri Paltan team.
The state association officials expressed pride in the achievements of Himachal players in kabaddi, noting that the state has consistently produced talent that has made its mark at national and international levels. They highlighted that several players from the state have previously been part of teams in Pro Kabaddi League, representing both India and various franchise teams in the competition.
Three officials from Himachal Pradesh will serve as referees in the tournament, adding to the state’s representation in different capacities. Rajeev from Bilaspur, Attar Singh from Sirmaur, and Pratibha Potan from Shimla have been selected to officiate matches during the league.
A notable presence in the tournament will be former Indian captain and Padma Shri and Arjuna Award recipient Ajay Thakur, who will be seen on the field as the head coach of Puneri Paltan team. Thakur’s involvement as a coach adds another dimension to Himachal’s connection with the league, as he continues to contribute to kabaddi development even after his playing career.
The Pro Kabaddi League has become a significant platform for players from smaller states to showcase their talent alongside established stars from traditional kabaddi strongholds. For Himachal Pradesh, which has limited opportunities in major professional sports leagues, the representation in Pro Kabaddi provides valuable exposure and career opportunities for local athletes.
The tournament will provide these players with experience at the highest level of domestic kabaddi, potentially opening doors for selection in national teams and further professional opportunities. The presence of Himachal players across different teams also indicates that the state’s kabaddi talent is being recognized and valued by franchise owners and team management.
