Patna Pirates: PKL History, Achievements,Social Media and Many More
Patna Pirates: The Golden Legacy of Kabaddi’s Most Dominant Team
When the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) began in 2014, few could have imagined how dramatically it would change the face of Indian sporting ecosystem. Amidst eight ambitious franchises, one team from Bihar — the Patna Pirates — emerged as a beacon of consistency, aggression, and sheer brilliance.
Over twelve seasons, Patna Pirates have transformed from a promising unit to the most successful franchise in PKL history, winning three consecutive championships, producing legends like Pardeep Narwal, and inspiring millions of Kabaddi fans across India.
Their story is not just about trophies; it’s about identity, revival, and an undying spirit that defines the very essence of Kabaddi.
The Beginning: Building a Base (Season 1–2)
The Patna Pirates entered Season 1 (2014) as one of the eight founding members of the Pro Kabaddi League. Led by veteran Rakesh Kumar and coached by Sambhaji Kadam, the team quickly showcased a fearless brand of Kabaddi. Patna’s defense was compact, and their attack was led by experienced raiders who thrived under pressure. They made an immediate impact by qualifying for the playoffs and eventually finishing third, winning the bronze medal match.
In a league dominated by established teams like Jaipur Pink Panthers and U Mumba, Patna’s third-place finish marked them as serious contenders. The early years also built the foundation of a loyal fan base — the “Pirate Army” — that would grow with every season.
Season 2 (2015) saw Patna continue their consistent performances under the leadership of Sandeep Narwal, one of the most fearsome all-rounders in Kabaddi. The team once again reached the playoffs, finishing fourth overall. While they couldn’t convert their run into a title, the Pirates’ aggressive style and youthful energy.
These formative years helped Patna build a culture of resilience and unity, which would later fuel their historic dominance.
The Rise of the Champions: The Pardeep Narwal Era (Season 3–5)
The turning point for the Patna Pirates — and arguably for the PKL itself — came in Season 3 (2016). The team was captained by Manpreet Singh, with Pardeep Narwal and Rohit Kumar forming a deadly raiding pair. Patna’s mix of experience and explosive raiding made them unstoppable. They went on to defeat defending champions U Mumba in the final by a score of 31–28, capturing their first PKL title.
It was a breakthrough not just for Patna but for Kabaddi as a sport. Their triumph came from an attacking mindset and tactical precision. Pardeep Narwal’s rise from a young raider to a league superstar was the season’s biggest story.
The Pirates carried that winning energy into Season 4 (2016 – July edition). This time, the team was led by the experienced Dharmaraj Cheralathan, with Pardeep Narwal becoming the central weapon in attack. The Pirates displayed exceptional consistency and defeated Jaipur Pink Panthers 37–29 in the final in the marquee event . Pardeep was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the season, establishing himself as the face of the franchise.
Then came Season 5 (2017) — the season that etched Patna Pirates into PKL folklore. With the league expanding to 12 teams, competition was tougher than ever.
Yet, Patna’s dominance only grew stronger. Under the captaincy of Pardeep Narwal and guidance of coach Ram Mehar Singh, the Pirates went on a record-breaking run, culminating in a 55–38 demolition of Gujarat Giants in the final.
That victory marked a hat-trick of titles (Seasons 3, 4, 5) — an unprecedented achievement in the league’s history. Pardeep Narwal was unstoppable, amassing 369 raid points, the highest ever in a single PKL season. His 34-point performance against Haryana Steelers remains one of the greatest individual displays in world Kabaddi.
These three seasons defined an era — the Pardeep Narwal era — where Patna Pirates became synonymous with excellence, dominance, and flair.
The Transition Phase: Challenges and Rebuilding (Season 6–7)
After their golden run, maintaining that level of success was always going to be difficult. The player auction system meant frequent reshuffling, and the Pirates began facing the consequences of over-dependence on their star raider.
In Season 6 (2018), Patna Pirates still had Pardeep at his peak, but their defense faltered badly. The team struggled to support their talisman, often conceding points late in games. Despite some brilliant individual raids, Patna failed to qualify for the playoffs — their first major setback since 2015.
Season 7 (2019) continued the downward trend. The team finished 8th, signaling the end of an era. The defense was inconsistent, and their once-feared raiding combination lacked balance. Pardeep Narwal continued to shine individually but couldn’t carry the team single-handedly.
This period also saw the management focus on building new combinations and developing young talent, anticipating the need for long-term stability. By the end of 2019, Patna was in full rebuilding mode — preparing for a fresh chapter.
The Revival: Return of the Pirates (Season 8–10)
After a two-year break due to the pandemic, PKL returned with Season 8 (2021–22), and so did the Patna Pirates — stronger than ever. With Prashanth Kumar Rai as captain and a new defensive core led by Mohammadreza Chiyaneh, the Pirates rediscovered their spark. Their defense became the league’s best, while raiders Sachin Tanwar and Monu Goyat provided steady performances up front.
Patna topped the league stage and stormed into the final, where they faced Dabang Delhi. In one of the most thrilling finals in PKL history, the Pirates narrowly lost 36–37, finishing as runners-up. Though the title slipped away, Season 8 marked a powerful revival for the team. Chiyaneh, their Iranian defender, was named the Best Defender of the Season, highlighting Patna’s renewed focus on all-round balance.
In Season 9 (2022), however, the team’s momentum waned. Despite having talent, injuries and inconsistency led to a 10th-place finish. The management recognized the need for stability and turned once again to youth, giving leadership to Neeraj Kumar.
Season 10 (2023) saw signs of revival. With a rejuvenated squad under Neeraj’s leadership, the Pirates returned to the semifinals, showcasing improved teamwork and tactical maturity. Young stars like Ankit and Manjeet emerged as future prospects, while the defense regained its sharpness.
The resilience of the Patna Pirates was evident — after years of dominance, decline, and transition, they were finding their rhythm again.
The Modern Era: New Leadership, Same Spirit (Season 11–12)
By Season 11 (2024), the Patna Pirates had rebuilt a new identity. Sachin Tanwar, the calm yet lethal raider, was appointed captain, and Narender Redu took over as head coach. This new leadership brought together experience and composure, backed by a strong defensive unit led by Mohammadreza Chiyaneh and Krishan Dhull.
Patna once again proved their pedigree, storming into the final after a spectacular playoff run. Though they lost to Haryana Steelers in the grand finale, the Pirates’ journey to the title match reminded everyone why they remain one of PKL’s most feared teams.
Season 11 symbolized the return of the fighting spirit — a mix of composure, strategy, and hunger. Players like Sachin Tanwar, Sudhakar M, and Ankit Benwal led a new generation ready to carry the legacy forward.
In Season 12 (2025), Patna entered the tournament as a top contender once again. Despite facing fierce competition, they finished among the top four, losing in the Eliminator stage. Their defense remained among the strongest in the league, while young raiders continued to show promise. Though the title eluded them, Patna proved they were no longer rebuilding — they were ready to dominate again.
Their Journey in Season 12 have been remarkable and credit should be given to their Coach Randeep Dalal who came in the midway, as Defence Coach and Ultimately took over as head coach the moment Anup Kumar left the franchise with reason still not clear.
However Anup Kumar story reminds us that no matter you could be great player it is not mandatory could be great coach for that you need to bring your A game as Coaching prowess which was missing and eventually Pirates Capitalized that under Randeep Dalal coaching, one of the most decorated franchise in Pro Kabaddi League made an absolute comeback where once they were placed at number 12th spot and ultimately they went on to win 8 back to back games in 11 days tenure where they succesfully defeated the likes of Bengaluru Bulls but lost eventually against Telugu Titans.
The Pirates Journey have been iconic the team which was once looking to even make it to Top 8 have failed to end at Number 4th Place which speaks a volume about the Kind of team they have become over the years.
Golden Achievements and Records
Over twelve seasons, the Patna Pirates have set benchmarks that may stand for years to come:
| Category | Record / Achievement |
| PKL Titles | 3 (Seasons 3, 4, 5) – most by any team |
| Runners-up Finishes | 2 (Seasons 8, 11) |
| Playoff Appearances | 8 out of 12 seasons |
| Most Consecutive Titles | 3 (Unmatched in PKL history) |
| Highest Single-Season Raid Points | Pardeep Narwal – 369 (Season 5) |
| Most Raid Points in a Match | Pardeep Narwal – 34 vs Haryana Steelers |
| Best Defender (Season 8) | Mohammadreza Chiyaneh |
| Longest Winning Streak | 9 matches (Season 5) |
These numbers reflect not only dominance but consistency — a rare quality in a league that constantly reshapes teams through auctions and rule changes.
Icons Who Defined the Pirates
Pardeep Narwal – The Dubki King
Arguably the most iconic player in PKL history, Pardeep Narwal redefined raiding with his innovative “dubki” move and unmatched scoring ability. During his time at Patna, he became the league’s highest-ever scorer, leading them to three consecutive titles. His individual brilliance turned the Pirates into a dynasty.
Sandeep Narwal – The Enforcer
A powerhouse all-rounder, Sandeep brought aggression and energy in the early seasons. His fearless tackles and quick raids made him one of the pillars of the team’s early success.
Dharmaraj Cheralathan – The Veteran Leader
At 41, Cheralathan captained the team in Season 4 and led them to their second consecutive title. His calmness under pressure and experience stabilized the squad during crucial moments.
Mohammadreza Chiyaneh – The Iranian Wall
Joining in Season 8, Chiyaneh’s defensive dominance transformed Patna into a fortress again. His sharp reflexes, anticipation, and high tackle success rate earned him the Best Defender award.
Sachin Tanwar – The Modern Face of Patna Pirates
Post the Pardeep era, Sachin Tanwar emerged as the new leader. His calm demeanor, balanced raiding, and ability to perform under pressure have made him the torchbearer of the franchise’s next generation.
Ayan Lochab– The Star in the Making
Ayan Lochab have been brilliant star for Patna Pirates he played second fiddle and scored 200+ raid points went on to captailize it further and scored 300+ raid points in PKL Season 12 where he was adjudged the best raider of the tournament speaks a volume about the kind of player he has become over the years.
The Patna Philosophy: Fearless and Fast
What truly sets Patna Pirates apart is their playing style — a mix of fearless raiding, tight corner defense, and psychological dominance. The team has always focused on speed and spontaneity, often turning matches around in minutes. Their strategy revolves around building pressure through relentless raiding and backing it with disciplined tackles.
Over the years, they’ve adapted to new rules, new players, and changing dynamics — yet their identity remains the same: Fearless. Fast. Focused.
The Fan Culture: The Pirate Army
The Pirates’ success has also inspired one of the most passionate fan bases in Kabaddi. Known as the Pirate Army, these supporters come from across Bihar and eastern India, turning every match into a celebration. Patna’s home ground — the Patliputra Sports Complex — is known for its electrifying atmosphere, echoing with chants of “Pirate Hamla!”
This emotional connect between the team and its fans is one of the strongest in Indian sports — built not on glamour, but on grit and pride.
From 2014 to 2025 Onwards:
From 2014 to 2025, the Patna Pirates have evolved through cycles of success, struggle, and resurgence — yet their core spirit remains intact. They have built a legacy of excellence, defined by commitment to Indian Kabaddi’s growth.
The three-time champions have inspired many regional players to pursue the sport professionally, and their scouting system continues to unearth raw talent from across Bihar, Haryana, and beyond.
As the Pro Kabaddi League moves into its next phase, the Pirates remain central to its story. With a balanced mix of youth and experience, led by players like Sachin Tanwar and guided by Narender Redu, Patna’s quest for a fourth title continues — and every indication suggests it’s only a matter of time before they reclaim the throne.
Final Perspective:
In a league where teams rise and fall with each auction, the Patna Pirates have stood the test of time. From their first bronze in 2014 to their three-peat championship run and subsequent resurgence, they have embodied every emotion that makes Kabaddi special — teamwork, courage, and belief.
Their journey is not just a sports story; it’s a reflection of Indian resilience — the idea that no matter how many times you fall, you fight back stronger.
Twelve seasons in, the Patna Pirates are not just a team — they are an institution of Kabaddi excellence.
Their story continues to inspire the next generation of players to dream, dive, and dominate — just like a true Pirate on the mat.
Patna Pirates: The Golden Legacy of Kabaddi’s Most Dominant Team
| Section | Details |
| Team Overview | Franchise: Patna Pirates Founded: 2014 (PKL Season 1) Home Ground: Patliputra Sports Complex, Patna Region Represented: Bihar Team Colors: Green & Yellow Mascot: Pirate Hamla |
| Tagline / Identity | Fearless. Fast. Focused. |
| Philosophy | A fearless, fast-paced style of Kabaddi built on aggression, tactical balance, and mental dominance. |
The Journey: Season-by-Season Evolution
| Era / Seasons | Timeline & Highlights |
| The Beginning – Building a Base (Seasons 1–2) | Season 1 (2014): • Captain: Rakesh Kumar • Coach: Sambhaji Kadam • Finish: 3rd place (Bronze Medal) • Built early fan base “Pirate Army”. Season 2 (2015): • Captain: Sandeep Narwal • Finish: 4th place • Known for aggressive & youthful playstyle. |
| The Rise of the Champions – Pardeep Narwal Era (Seasons 3–5) | Season 3 (2016): • Captain: Manpreet Singh • Key Raiders: Pardeep Narwal, Rohit Kumar • Result: Champions – Beat U Mumba 31–28 • First PKL title. Season 4 (2016 – July): • Captain: Dharmaraj Cheralathan • Result: Champions – Beat Jaipur Pink Panthers 37–29 • Pardeep Narwal: MVP Season 5 (2017): • Captain: Pardeep Narwal • Coach: Ram Mehar Singh • Result: Champions – Beat Gujarat Giants 55–38 • Record: 369 raid points by Pardeep (highest ever) • 34 raid points in one match vs Haryana Steelers. • Achieved historic hat-trick of titles (3, 4, 5). |
| Transition Phase – Challenges & Rebuilding (Seasons 6–7) | Season 6 (2018): • Captain: Pardeep Narwal • Missed Playoffs • Defense inconsistency despite strong raids. Season 7 (2019): • Finished 8th • Decline of Pardeep Era • Management focused on youth and rebuilding. |
| Revival – Return of the Pirates (Seasons 8–10) | Season 8 (2021–22): • Captain: Prashanth Kumar Rai • Key Players: Mohammadreza Chiyaneh, Sachin Tanwar, Monu Goyat • Result: Runners-up (Lost 36–37 to Dabang Delhi) • Chiyaneh: Best Defender of the Season Season 9 (2022): • Captain: Neeraj Kumar • Finish: 10th • Injury setbacks & inconsistency. Season 10 (2023): • Captain: Neeraj Kumar • Reached Semifinals • Emerging Players: Ankit, Manjeet • Strong defense revival. |
| Modern Era – New Leadership, Same Spirit (Seasons 11–12) | Season 11 (2024): • Captain: Sachin Tanwar • Coach: Narender Redu • Key Players: Chiyaneh, Krishan Dhull • Result: Runners-up (Lost to Haryana Steelers) • Marked new generation leadership. Season 12 (2025): • Captain: Sachin Tanwar • Finish: Top 4 (Eliminator exit) • Strong defense; young raiders rising. • Established as consistent contenders again. |
Golden Achievements & Records
| Category | Record / Achievement |
| PKL Titles | 3 (Seasons 3, 4, 5) – Most by any team |
| Runners-up Finishes | 2 (Seasons 8, 11) |
| Playoff Appearances | 8 out of 12 seasons |
| Most Consecutive Titles | 3 (Unmatched in PKL history) |
| Highest Single-Season Raid Points | 369 – Pardeep Narwal (Season 5) |
| Most Raid Points in a Match | 34 – Pardeep Narwal vs Haryana Steelers |
| Best Defender (Season 8) | Mohammadreza Chiyaneh |
| Longest Winning Streak | 9 matches (Season 5) |
Icons Who Defined the Patna Pirates Legacy
| Player | Contribution / Legacy |
| Pardeep Narwal – The Dubki King | Most iconic raider in PKL; 3-time champion; record-breaking scorer; innovator of the “dubki” move. |
| Sandeep Narwal – The Enforcer | Early-era all-rounder; fierce defender and quick raider; leadership foundation in Season 2. |
| Dharmaraj Cheralathan – The Veteran Leader | Captained Season 4 champions; provided composure and experience. |
| Mohammadreza Chiyaneh – The Iranian Wall | Best Defender (Season 8); revived Patna’s defense with unmatched tackling precision. |
| Sachin Tanwar – The Modern Face | Captain in Seasons 11–12; calm raider and new-era leader representing the future of the franchise. |
The Patna Philosophy
| Core Values | Details |
| Playing Style | Fearless raiding, fast transitions, disciplined defense. |
| Tactical Approach | Build pressure through raids; exploit opponents’ mistakes; emphasize teamwork over individual stardom. |
| Mentality | Always comeback-ready; thrive under pressure. |
| Team Motto | Fearless. Fast. Focused. |
The Fan Culture – The Pirate Army
| Aspect | Details |
| Fan Identity | “Pirate Army” – one of PKL’s most passionate fan bases. |
| Region | Primarily Bihar & Eastern India. |
| Home Venue | Patliputra Sports Complex, Patna. |
| Atmosphere | Electrifying, filled with chants of “Pirate Hamla!”. |
| Bond with Team | Deep emotional connection built on pride, loyalty, and resilience. |
The Legacy & Road Ahead
| Legacy | Details |
| Contribution to Kabaddi | Inspired regional talent; set a benchmark for consistency and professionalism. |
| Talent Pipeline | Strong scouting network across Bihar, Haryana & UP. |
| Leadership Transition | From Rakesh & Pardeep to Sachin Tanwar — continuity of culture. |
| Future Outlook | Building towards 4th PKL title with balance of youth & experience under coach Narender Redu. |
Conclusion – The Spirit of the Pirates
| Essence | Details |
| Resilience | Survived eras of dominance, decline, and revival — always bounced back stronger. |
| Symbolism | Represents Indian grit and unity through sport. |
| Legacy Statement | “Patna Pirates are not just a team — they are an institution of Kabaddi excellence.” |
| Inspiration | Continues to motivate new generations to dream, dive, and dominate — like true Pirates on the mat. |
Patna Pirates Social Media Profile:
Patna Pirates have amazing fan following on social media, with 157K followers on Youtube channel and 383 K followers on Instagram.
Patna Pirates have loyal fan base and they deserve to be celebrated.
Patna Pirates Insgtagram: https://www.youtube.com/@patnapirates5670
Patna Piraes Youtube: https://www.instagram.com/patnapirates/
The Patna Pirates is a superb team always a franchise who would never look to bog down under pressure and their comparison is always done against Mumbai Indians in IPL where the latter somehow emerged at the top no matter what and credit should be given based on how they have fared in Season 12 at one time, they were finding it difficult to make into Top 8 but they created history where they went on to win 8 games back to back in 11 matches and eventually reached in Top 4.
Their campaign have been nothing short of miracle, also the way entire defensive unit came to the party speaks a lot about the way they played throughout the tournament.
Let’s see how they would build momentum going forward whatever it would be, it would certainly make Patna Pirates fans dancing to the tunes and enjoying themselves in the middle whether in offense or in defense.
Overall it has been great journey for them, they must be elated about their campaign.
