Top 5 Steal Buys of PKL 12
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 auction, held on May 31 and June 1, 2025, in Mumbai. With over 500 players up for grabs, teams made smart moves to build strong squads. While some players fetched huge amounts, others were picked up at surprisingly low prices, making them the steal buys of PKL 12. The top 5 steal buys of PKL 12, including Pawan Sehrawat, Ankush Rathee, Fazel Atrachali, Maninder Singh, and Rinku. These players, signed at bargain prices, could be game-changers for their teams in the upcoming season.
1. Pawan Sehrawat – Tamil Thalaivas (59.50 Lakh)
Pawan Sehrawat, one of the biggest names in Pro Kabaddi League history, was a shocking steal buy for Tamil Thalaivas at just 59.50 lakh. With a base price of 30 lakh, Pawan was expected to attract massive bids, given his record as the most expensive player in PKL history (2.605 crore in Season 10). However, a late bidding war saw Tamil Thalaivas secure the star raider at a fraction of his usual price.
Why is this a steal buys of PKL 12? Pawan, known as the “Hi-Flyer,” is a top raider with 1300+ raid points and 70 Super 10s in 139 matches. Despite an injury in Season 9, he showed his class last season before getting sidelined. Tamil Thalaivas, who also signed Arjun Deshwal for 1.405 crore, now have a deadly raiding duo. Pawan’s experience and ability to score crucial points make him a steal buy of PKL 12, and he could lead the Thalaivas to the playoffs.
2. Ankush Rathee – Bengaluru Bulls (30 Lakh)
Ankush Rathee, a talented left-corner defender, was another steal buy of PKL 12, snapped up by Bengaluru Bulls at his base price of 30 lakh. This move surprised many, as Ankush was one of the top defenders last season, ranking among the top 15 for tackle points. His signing at such a low price is a major coup for the Bulls.
Why is Ankush a steal buys of PKL 12? As a young defender, he brings energy and skill to Bengaluru’s defense, which struggled last season. Alongside new signings like Yogesh Dahiya and Sanjay Dhull, Ankush helps form one of the strongest defensive units in PKL 12. His ability to execute crucial tackles in high-pressure moments makes him a perfect fit for a team looking to rebuild. Bengaluru Bulls fans will be excited to see this steal buy of PKL 12 shine on the mat.
3. Fazel Atrachali – Dabang Delhi (30 Lakh)
Fazel Atrachali, the most successful defender in Pro Kabaddi League history, was a massive steal buy of PKL 12 for Dabang Delhi at his base price of 30 lakh. The Iranian star, known for his leadership and tackling skills, has crossed the 1-crore mark three times in PKL auctions, making this deal one of the biggest surprises of 2025.
Why is Fazel a steal buys of PKL 12? With two Best Defender awards and a record of leading teams to playoffs, Fazel is a legend. His experience strengthens Dabang Delhi’s defense, alongside players like Saurabh Nandal and Surjeet Singh. Fazel’s ability to read the game and guide younger players makes him a vital asset. This steal buy of PKL 12 could help Dabang Delhi, who reached the Season 11 playoffs, aim for the title in Season 12.
4. Maninder Singh – Patna Pirates (20 Lakh)
Maninder Singh, one of PKL’s most consistent raiders, was picked up by Patna Pirates for just 20 lakh, his base price, making him a steal buy of PKL 12. Known for his strength and raiding skills, Maninder has been a key player for Bengal Warriors, leading them to the Season 7 title. His low price was a shock, given his track record.
Why is Maninder a steal buys of PKL 12? With over 1500 raid points in his PKL career, Maninder is a proven match-winner. His move to Patna Pirates, a three-time champion team, adds firepower to their raiding unit. Alongside players like Deepak Singh and Ankit Jaglan, Maninder could revive Patna’s glory days. This steal buy of PKL 12 is a golden opportunity for the Pirates to dominate the upcoming season.
5. Rinku – U Mumba (21 Lakh)
Rinku, a promising defender, was signed by U Mumba for 21 lakh, just 1 lakh above his base price of 20 lakh, making him a steal buy of PKL 12. As a retained player in the Elite Retained Players category, Rinku has shown potential in previous seasons, and his low price is a smart move for U Mumba.
Why is Rinku a steal buys of PKL 12? As a young defender, Rinku brings agility and tackling skills to U Mumba’s defense, which includes stars like Sunil Kumar and Amirmohammad Zafardanesh. His ability to support experienced players makes him a valuable addition. U Mumba, known for their strong defense, got a bargain with Rinku, and this steal buy of PKL 12 could prove to be a game-changer in tight matches.
The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 auction saw some big names like Mohammadreza Shadloui (2.23 crore) and Devank Dalal (2.205 crore) fetch huge amounts. However, the steal buys of PKL 12, like Pawan Sehrawat, Ankush Rathee, Fazel Atrachali, Maninder Singh, and Rinku, highlight how teams can build strong squads without breaking the bank. These players, signed at low prices, bring a mix of experience, skill, and potential to their teams.
For example, Tamil Thalaivas’ signing of Pawan Sehrawat and Arjun Deshwal creates a raiding unit that could trouble any defense. Bengaluru Bulls’ defensive trio of Ankush Rathee, Yogesh Dahiya, and Sanjay Dhull gives them a solid foundation. Dabang Delhi’s addition of Fazel Atrachali strengthens their playoff chances, while Patna Pirates and U Mumba benefit from the experience of Maninder Singh and the potential of Rinku, respectively.
How PKL Season 12 Will Shape Up
With PKL 12 likely starting around August 15-17, 2025, fans are eager to see how these steal buys perform. The season is expected to feature 137 matches, including 132 league games and 5 playoff matches, promising plenty of action. Teams like Tamil Thalaivas, Bengaluru Bulls, Dabang Delhi, Patna Pirates, and U Mumba have made smart moves in the auction, and their steal buys could be the key to success.
The steal buys of PKL 12 also show the importance of strategy in auctions. While big-money signings grab headlines, picking up proven players at low prices can make a huge difference. These five players have the skills to turn matches in their team’s favor, and their low costs allow their franchises to invest in other areas of the squad.
The top 5 steal buys of Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 are Pawan Sehrawat, Ankush Rathee, Fazel Atrachali, Maninder Singh, and Rinku are set to make a big impact. Signed at bargain prices, these players bring a wealth of experience and talent to their teams. As PKL 12 approaches, fans can expect thrilling performances from these stars, who could lead their franchises to glory.
FAQs About Top 5 Steal Buys of PKL 12
1. Who was the biggest steal buy of PKL 12 auction?
Pawan Sehrawat, signed by Tamil Thalaivas for 59.50 lakh, was the biggest steal buy of PKL 12, given his history as the most expensive player in PKL and his raiding skills.
2. Why was Fazel Atrachali’s signing a steal for Dabang Delhi?
Fazel Atrachali, a legendary defender with two Best Defender awards, was signed at his base price of 30 lakh, making him a steal buy of PKL 12 for Dabang Delhi due to his experience and leadership.
3. How will Maninder Singh impact Patna Pirates in PKL 12?
Maninder Singh, signed for 20 lakh, brings over 1500 raid points and title-winning experience to Patna Pirates, making him a steal buy of PKL 12 who could lead their raiding unit to success.
