The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has revolutionized the sport of Kabaddi in India, bringing the game to the forefront of the nation’s sporting culture. Central to the excitement of the PKL are the raiders, the fearless players who venture into the opponent’s half to score points through sheer agility, strength, and strategy. Over the seasons, several raiders have left an indelible mark on the league. Here’s a look at the top 10 raiders in PKL history who have mesmerized fans with their exceptional skills and thrilling performances.
- Pardeep Narwal
Known as the “Dubki King,” Pardeep Narwal is the highest-scoring raider in PKL history. His ability to execute the dubki (a move where the raider ducks under the outstretched arms of defenders) with precision makes him one of the most dangerous raiders the league has ever seen. - Rahul Chaudhari
Rahul Chaudhari, often referred to as the “Showman” of PKL, was one of the league’s earliest stars. His all-round abilities and flair on the mat made him a fan favorite, and he consistently ranks among the top raiders in the league’s history. - Deepak Niwas Hooda
Deepak Niwas Hooda is a versatile player who excels both as a raider and a defender. His leadership on the mat, combined with his raiding prowess, has made him one of the most valuable players in PKL. - Ajay Thakur
Ajay Thakur, the “Iceman” of Kabaddi, is known for his calm demeanor and the ability to perform under pressure. His signature move, the frog jump, has caught many defenders off guard, making him one of the most successful raiders in the league. - Maninder Singh
Maninder Singh is a powerhouse raider known for his strength and speed. He has consistently performed at a high level, leading his teams to numerous victories with his prolific raiding. - Siddharth Desai
Siddharth Desai burst onto the PKL scene with a bang, quickly establishing himself as one of the most formidable raiders. His physicality and swift movement make him a tough challenge for any defense. - Rishank Devadiga
Rishank Devadiga is known for his sharp mind and quick reflexes on the mat. His ability to read the game and adapt his strategies mid-raid has made him one of the smartest raiders in PKL. - Naveen Kumar
Naveen Kumar, the “Naveen Express,” is one of the youngest and fastest-growing stars in PKL. His agility and quick thinking have made him one of the top raiders, earning him accolades and a loyal fan base. - Kashiling Adake
Kashiling Adake was one of the most exciting raiders during the early seasons of PKL. His athleticism and knack for scoring points in crucial moments earned him the title of “Kashi Bomber.” - Anup Kumar
Anup Kumar, often called “Captain Cool,” was a strategic genius on the mat. His calm and composed nature, coupled with his ability to execute bonus points and crucial raids, made him one of the most respected raiders in PKL.