Gujarat Giants have confirmed the departure of head coach Jaivir Sharma and assistant coach Varinder Singh Sandhu as the franchise begins a rebuild ahead of the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League season.
The decision, announced on Tuesday, February 17, signals a significant shift in direction after a disappointing PKL 12 campaign. Team management has opted for a fresh approach on the sidelines, hoping a change in leadership can help restore competitiveness and consistency.
The Giants endured a difficult run in Season 12, finishing 11th on the table with just 12 points and a score difference of -73. From 18 matches, they managed six wins but suffered 12 defeats, struggling to maintain rhythm throughout the season. Problems in raiding efficiency and defensive coordination repeatedly cost the side, leaving them unable to mount a sustained push up the standings.
Following the underwhelming performance, the franchise moved swiftly to revamp its coaching structure before the start of PKL 13. A new head coach is expected to be appointed soon, with preparations set to intensify ahead of the auction and preseason phase.
The upcoming PKL 13 auction will be pivotal for Gujarat as they look to plug gaps, particularly in defence and secondary raiding support. Management is likely to reassess the core squad and bring in strategic reinforcements to create a more balanced unit capable of competing at the highest level.
The franchise’s recent struggles stand in contrast to some brighter moments in its history. The Giants last reached the playoffs in Season 10, finishing fourth in the standings with 70 points and a healthy score difference of 32 from 22 matches. That season saw them register 13 wins against nine losses before their campaign ended in Eliminator 1 with a 42-25 defeat to the Haryana Steelers.
Gujarat’s best-ever performance came in Season 5 when they finished runners-up, falling short against the Patna Pirates in the final. They repeated that feat in the following season but again had to settle for second place after a narrow 38-33 loss to the Bengaluru Bulls.
With a new season approaching, the Giants now face a crucial phase of transition as they aim to turn the page and build a squad capable of challenging once more.
