PKL 12 Auction: Top 5 Players Bengaluru Bulls Can Target
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 auction, set for May 31 and June 1, 2025, in Mumbai, is just around the corner, and the Bengaluru Bulls are gearing up to rebuild their squad after a disappointing Season 11. With a remaining purse of ₹4.12 crore, the Bengaluru Bulls have one of the largest budgets among the 12 teams, giving them the chance to bid for top players. After finishing last in Season 11, the team has appointed BC Ramesh as head coach and is expected to make bold moves in the PKL 12 auction.
Why Bengaluru Bulls Need a Strong Auction Strategy
The Bengaluru Bulls had a tough Season 11, finishing at the bottom of the table. Despite having star raider Pardeep Narwal, the team struggled with consistency in both raiding and defense. Now, with a fresh start under new coach BC Ramesh, the Bengaluru Bulls have released several players, including Pardeep, and focus on building a balanced squad. Their ₹4.12 crore purse gives them the power to chase big names in the PKL 12 auction, and they’ll likely target players who can lead their raiding and defensive units. With over 500 players up for grabs, including domestic and overseas stars, the Bulls have a golden opportunity to turn things around.
5 Players Bengaluru Bulls Can Target in PKL 12 Auction
1. Pawan Sehrawat
First on the list is Pawan Sehrawat, the “Hi-Flyer” and one of the biggest names in kabaddi. Pawan, the former captain of the Bengaluru Bulls, led the team to the Season 6 title and holds the record as the most expensive Indian player in PKL history, bought for ₹2.605 crore by Telugu Titans in Season 10. Although his form dipped slightly in recent seasons, Pawan’s raiding skills and leadership make him a top target for the Bengaluru Bulls.
2. Mohammadreza Shadloui
Next up is Mohammadreza Shadloui, the Iranian all-rounder known as the “Showstopper.” Shadloui has been a game-changer in recent seasons, fetching ₹2.35 crore with Puneri Paltan in Season 10 and ₹2.07 crore with Haryana Steelers in Season 11. His ability to excel in both raiding and defense makes him a perfect fit for the Bengaluru Bulls, who need a versatile player to strengthen their squad. Shadloui’s tackling skills could anchor the defense, while his occasional raids add unpredictability. With their large purse, the Bengaluru Bulls can compete with teams like Dabang Delhi (₹4.56 crore) to sign him in the PKL 12 auction.
3. Yogesh Dahiya
Defense was a weak point for the Bengaluru Bulls in Season 11, and Yogesh Dahiya could be the answer. A key defender for Dabang Delhi, Yogesh has a strong record of tackles and is known for his calm presence on the mat. His ability to execute ankle holds and chain tackles makes him a valuable asset. Since Dabang Delhi released several players, including Yogesh, he’s likely to attract bids over ₹1 crore in the PKL 12 auction. The Bulls, with their ₹4.12 crore purse, can afford to target him to pair with existing defenders or a new signing like Surjeet Singh. Yogesh’s experience would bring stability to the Bulls defense, helping them stop top raiders.
4. Surjeet Singh
Another defensive star the Bengaluru Bulls should target is Surjeet Singh, one of the most experienced defenders in PKL history. Surjeet has over 400 tackle points across his career and has played for teams like Puneri Paltan and U Mumba. His leadership in the defensive unit and ability to organize cover defenders make him a great fit for the Bengaluru Bulls, who struggled with team coordination last season. Surjeet’s price is likely to be around ₹1 crore or more, which is well within the Bulls’ budget. Pairing him with a young defender like Yogesh Dahiya could create a strong defensive wall for the team in Season 12.
5. Naveen Kumar
Finally, Naveen Kumar, the “Naveen Express,” is a must-watch for the Bengaluru Bulls. A star raider for Dabang Delhi, Naveen has 1102 raid points in his PKL career and is entering the auction for the first time. His speed, agility, and ability to score bonus points make him one of the best raiders in the league. The Bengaluru Bulls need a consistent lead raider, and Naveen could fill the gap left by Pardeep Narwal. With their ₹4.12 crore purse, the Bulls can compete with teams like Gujarat Giants and Bengal Warriorz to sign him.
How Bengaluru Bulls Can Use Their Purse
With ₹4.12 crore, the Bengaluru Bulls have the second-highest purse in the PKL 12 auction, behind only Dabang Delhi (₹4.56 crore). This gives them the flexibility to bid for one or two high-value players like Pawan Sehrawat or Mohammadreza Shadloui, who could cost over ₹2 crore each. Additionally, they can target defenders like Yogesh Dahiya and Surjeet Singh to strengthen their backline. The Bulls might also save some funds to pick up young players in Categories C and D (base prices ₹13 lakh and ₹9 lakh) to build squad depth. Their strategy will likely focus on balancing star power with reliable role players to avoid the mistakes of Season 11.
Moreover, the Bengaluru Bulls can use their FBM card strategically. For example, if they lose a bidding war for Nitin Rawal, they could use the FBM card to match the highest bid and bring him back. Alternatively, they could save the card for a surprise pick like Pardeep Narwal. Coach BC Ramesh’s experience will be key in guiding the Bulls to make smart choices in the PKL 12 auction.
Why These Players Are Perfect for Bengaluru Bulls
Each of these players brings something unique to the Bengaluru Bulls. Pawan Sehrawat and Naveen Kumar offer explosive raiding, which the team lacked last season. Mohammadreza Shadloui’s all-round skills would add versatility, allowing the Bengaluru Bulls to adapt to different opponents. Yogesh Dahiya and Surjeet Singh would strengthen the defense, addressing a major weakness. Together, these players could form a well-rounded squad capable of challenging for the Season 12 title. The Bulls’ large purse gives them the chance to sign at least two of these stars while filling out the roster with young talent.
The PKL 12 auction will be a turning point for the Bengaluru Bulls. After a poor Season 11, fans are eager to see the team bounce back. With over 500 players available, including domestic and overseas stars, the Bengaluru Bulls have a chance to rebuild their legacy. The Bulls are expected to make bold bids, and players like Pawan Sehrawat, Mohammadreza Shadloui, and Naveen Kumar could be game-changers for the team.
The Bengaluru Bulls are in a strong position for the PKL 12 auction with their ₹4.12 crore purse. By targeting players like Pawan Sehrawat, Mohammadreza Shadloui, Yogesh Dahiya, Surjeet Singh, and Naveen Kumar, they can build a squad that competes with top teams like Haryana Steelers and Patna Pirates. The auction will test their strategy, but with smart choices, the Bengaluru Bulls could return to their winning ways in Season 12.
FAQs
1. Who are the top players Bengaluru Bulls can target in the PKL 12 auction?
The Bengaluru Bulls can target Pawan Sehrawat, Mohammadreza Shadloui, Yogesh Dahiya, Surjeet Singh, and Naveen Kumar in the PKL 12 auction.
2. How much money do Bengaluru Bulls have for the PKL 12 auction?
The Bengaluru Bulls have a remaining purse of ₹4.12 crore, the second-highest among all teams, for the PKL 12 auction.
3. Why do Bengaluru Bulls need new players for Season 12?
The Bengaluru Bulls finished last in Season 11 and struggled with raiding and defense. They need new players to rebuild a balanced squad for Season 12.
