Mumbai,aug 21
Maharashtra has long been known as a hotbed for Kabaddi and will have the second-most representation in season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). Carrying forward the state’s rich heritage in the sport are U Mumba and Puneri Paltan — both former PKL champions.The commencement of Season 12 will see the return of this classic Maharashtrian rivalry. Traditionally, both sides have been regular contenders at the business end of the tournament, and as always, expectations are high to go one better this season.The latest chapter of this rivalry will unfold on September 18 in Jaipur at the historic Sawai Mansingh Indoor Stadium — the same venue that hosted the league’s 1000th match in 2024. The clash will feature PKL’s most successful captain, Sunil Kumar of U Mumba, against star raider Aslam Inamdar who leads Puneri Paltan. Inamdar guided Puneri Paltan to the season 10 trophy, becoming the first Maharashtrian captain to win PKL.Further heightening the contest is the presence of Kabaddi legend Ajay Thakur as coach of Puneri Paltan, while U Mumba is guided by head coach Anil Chaprana, who will be rejoining the side as the top boss after a season as the assistant coach.Back from injury and eager to make his mark, Puneri Paltan skipper Aslam Inamdar said, as quoted by PKL press release, “Being born and raised in Maharashtra, it was always my dream to represent the state in Kabaddi. Playing for Puneri Paltan and becoming champions has been one of the proudest moments of my career. To once again stand on such a big stage in the PKL and represent where I come from is a very special feeling for me.”
Looking ahead to the season, U Mumba captain Sunil Kumar shared, “Maharashtra has always been a powerhouse of Kabaddi, and this shows how big the sport truly is here. For me, to lead U Mumba–a team with such a strong legacy and talented players–is a matter of immense pride.
