The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) is set for a bigger second season, with organisers confirming the addition of two new franchises and an increased player auction purse of Rs 5 crore as the competition looks to strengthen its position in Indian kabaddi.
The league will feature 10 teams instead of the eight that participated in its inaugural edition, marking an important step in its expansion plans.
Jhajjar Jaguars and Kurukshetra Knights have joined the competition as the two new franchises. They will compete alongside Bhiwani Bulls, Rohtak Royals, Karnal Kings, Gurugram Gurus, Sonipat Stars, Panipat Panthers, Faridabad Fighters and Hisar Heroes.
The expansion comes at a time when uncertainty surrounds the next season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). The 13th edition of the country’s established professional kabaddi competition is expected to be delayed until June-July 2027.
The possible postponement follows the conclusion of PKL’s previous broadcasting rights agreement and delays in finalising a new media partner.
Against this backdrop, the Kabaddi Champions League is looking to create more opportunities for players while attracting greater attention to its growing competition.
The league conducted its second-season player auction on October 17, with more than 300 players featuring in the auction pool.
An increased purse of Rs 5 crore provided franchises with additional financial flexibility to strengthen their squads ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Ayan Lochab emerged as the most expensive player at the auction after newcomers Jhajjar Jaguars secured his services for Rs 17.4 lakh.
Bharat Hooda was another major signing, joining Karnal Kings for Rs 16.6 lakh, while Kurukshetra Knights acquired Naveen Goyat for Rs 15.2 lakh.
Faridabad Fighters also made significant investments, signing Rakesh Singroha for Rs 11 lakh and India’s Asian Games captain Sunil Malik for Rs 10 lakh.
Apart from its franchise expansion and increased spending, the league has witnessed encouraging participation in its player identification programme.
Central trials conducted in Sonipat attracted 6,400 registrations, while another 650 players took part in trials held in Rohtak.
The strong response eventually contributed to an auction pool featuring more than 300 players, highlighting the level of interest among emerging kabaddi talent.
With two additional franchises, a larger auction budget and substantial participation in its selection trials, the Kabaddi Champions League is preparing for an expanded second edition.
The developments could provide another competitive platform for Indian kabaddi players as uncertainty continues over the Pro Kabaddi League’s next season.
