PKL 12: The OGs of Kabaddi Ruling the Mat
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 is here, and among the fresh faces and young talent, six veteran players stand out, proving that experience still rules the kabaddi mat. These kabaddi veterans are Maninder Singh, Jang Kun Lee, Fazel Atrachali, Ashish Sangwan, Surjeet Singh, and Pawan Sehrawat. They are ready to show their skills in PKL 12, starting later in 2025. With years of action behind them, these players bring heart, grit, and talent to their teams.
Maninder Singh
Maninder Singh, playing for Patna Pirates in PKL 12, is a true kabaddi legend. He’s been raiding since PKL Season 1, when he started with Jaipur Pink Panthers. Back then, his powerful raids helped Jaipur win the first-ever PKL title. Now, after years of scoring points and leading teams, Maninder Singh is still a force. In PKL 11, he led Bengal Warriorz with his smart raids, earning the nickname “Mighty Mani.” His move to Patna Pirates, a three-time champion team, is exciting.
Moreover, Maninder Singh’s experience makes him a leader on the mat. His Super 10s are a fan favorite. At the PKL 12 auction, Patna Pirates signed him for ₹20 lakhs, a steal for such a star.
Jang Kun Lee
Next up is Jang Kun Lee, the South Korean star playing for Bengal Warriorz in PKL 12. He’s been in PKL since Season 1, starting with Bengal Warriorz. Known for his “Scorpion Kick,” Jang Kun Lee is a crowd-pleaser. After a four-year break, he returned to PKL 11 with Patna Pirates and now rejoins his old team. His unique raiding style and quick moves make him hard to stop.
Additionally, Jang Kun Lee brings international flavour to PKL. His return to Bengal Warriorz, who won PKL Season 7, adds strength to their raiding unit. Fans can’t wait to see his Scorpion Kick in action again.
Fazel Atrachali
Fazel Atrachali, playing for Dabang Delhi in PKL 12, is the most successful defender in PKL history. This Iranian star started in Season 2 with U Mumba and has been a game-changer ever since. With over 500 tackle points in his career, Fazel Atrachali is a nightmare for raiders. In PKL 11, he led Bengal Warriorz’ defense, and now he joins Dabang Delhi, the Season 8 champions.
Furthermore, Fazel Atrachali went for ₹30 lakhs at the PKL 12 auction, a bargain for his skills. His tackles and game-reading ability make him a key player for Dabang Delhi. Expect him to shut down top raiders in PKL 12.
Ashish Sangwan
Ashish Sangwan, another Dabang Delhi star in PKL 12, has been playing since Season 2, starting with Bengaluru Bulls. As an all-rounder, Ashish Sangwan can raid and defend, making him a valuable player. His experience helps him stay calm in high-pressure moments. Ashish Sangwan supports his team in both attack and defense.
Also, Ashish Sangwan was signed for ₹13 lakhs at the PKL 12 auction. His versatility fits perfectly with Dabang Delhi’s balanced squad, which includes stars like Fazel Atrachali and Ashu Malik. Watch out for Ashish Sangwan making big plays in PKL 12
Surjeet Singh
Surjeet Singh, playing for Dabang Delhi in PKL 12, started his PKL journey in Season 3 with Puneri Paltan. Known for his strong tackles and dash, Surjeet Singh has been a top defender for years. In PKL 11, he played for Jaipur Pink Panthers, and now he strengthens Dabang Delhi’s defense alongside Fazel Atrachali.
Besides, Surjeet Singh was bought for ₹20 lakhs at the PKL 12 auction. His ability to stop raiders and lead the defense makes him a key part of Dabang Delhi’s plan to win another title.
Pawan Sehrawat
Finally, Pawan Sehrawat, playing for Tamil Thalaivas in PKL 12, is one of PKL’s biggest stars. Starting in Season 3 with Bengaluru Bulls, he became famous for his “Lion Jump,” a powerful move that helps him escape defenders. Pawan Sehrawat faces every defense with confidence. In PKL 6, he was the MVP, leading Bengaluru Bulls to the title.
What’s more, Pawan Sehrawat was signed for ₹59.5 lakhs at the PKL 12 auction, a surprise bargain for a player of his caliber. His raids will boost Tamil Thalaivas, who also signed star raider Arjun Deshwal.
These Veterans of PKL 12
These six kabaddi veterans bring more than just skills to PKL 12. Their experience helps guide younger players. For example, Maninder Singh and Fazel Atrachali are leaders who inspire their teams. Jang Kun Lee and Pawan Sehrawat add flair with their unique moves, while Ashish Sangwan and Surjeet Singh provide balance and stability.
In addition, PKL 12 is a mix of old and new talent. Teams like Patna Pirates, Bengal Warriorz, Dabang Delhi, and Tamil Thalaivas have built strong squads around these veterans. The auction, held on May 31 and June 1, 2025, in Mumbai, saw smart buys, with Fazel Atrachali and Maninder Singh proving that experience is still valuable.
As PKL 12 kicks off later in 2025, fans are eager to see these kabaddi veterans in action. Maninder Singh will aim for a fourth title with Patna Pirates. Jang Kun Lee hopes to help the Bengal Warriorz win another championship. Fazel Atrachali, Ashish Sangwan, and Surjeet Singh will make Dabang Delhi’s defense tough to beat. Meanwhile, Pawan Sehrawat could lead Tamil Thalaivas to their first PKL title.
These veterans are ready to lead their teams in PKL 12. Their years on the mat have taught them how to handle pressure, outsmart opponents, and win matches. PKL 12 promises thrilling raids, strong tackles, and unforgettable moments, all thanks to these timeless stars.
FAQs About PKL 12 Veterans
1. Who are the veteran players in PKL 12?
The six kabaddi veterans in PKL 12 are Maninder Singh (Patna Pirates), Jang Kun Lee (Bengal Warriorz), Fazel Atrachali (Dabang Delhi), Ashish Sangwan (Dabang Delhi), Surjeet Singh (Dabang Delhi), and Pawan Sehrawat(Tamil Thalaivas).
2. How long has Maninder Singh been playing in PKL?
Maninder Singh has been playing since PKL Season 1 in 2014, starting with Jaipur Pink Panthers. He’s now with Patna Pirates in PKL 12.
3. What makes Pawan Sehrawat a special player?
Pawan Sehrawat is known for his “Lion Jump,” a powerful raiding move. He was the MVP in PKL Season 6 and plays for Tamil Thalaivas in PKL 12.
