The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is set to break new ground with its first-ever international foray, hosting the PKL Melbourne Raid, a two-match exhibition series in Melbourne, Australia. This landmark event aims to expand kabaddi’s global presence by introducing the sport to an untapped market.
The matches, taking place on Saturday, December 28, 2024, serve as a prelude to the league’s ongoing season finale in Pune, where the Haryana Steelers and Patna Pirates will compete for the championship title.
What is PKL Melbourne Raid?
The Melbourne Raid consists of four teams:
- PKL All Star Mavericks
- PKL All Star Masters
- Pro Kabaddi All Stars
- Aussie Raiders
The first match will feature the Mavericks facing off against the Masters, followed by the All Stars taking on the Aussie Raiders, a team composed of Australia’s top kabaddi talent.
Australia’s Growing Interest in Kabaddi
While kabaddi is not traditionally associated with Australia, the PKL’s initiative could serve as a launching pad for the sport’s growth in the region. According to Ajay Thakur, former India captain and assistant coach of Puneri Paltan, Australia possesses the potential to develop into a competitive kabaddi nation.
“They may not be great at the sport technically, but Aussie players are very well built and have great power. If they dedicate themselves to kabaddi, they can rival teams like Iran, South Korea, and Pakistan,” said Thakur.
Why Melbourne Raid Matters
This event highlights the PKL’s commitment to taking kabaddi beyond its traditional strongholds in South Asia. By organizing international exhibitions, the league hopes to inspire a global audience, attract more talent, and create new opportunities for players and fans alike.
Ajay Thakur expressed optimism about the initiative:
“This is a fantastic step for the game. It’s high time kabaddi explores new territories.”
Star-Studded Lineup
The Melbourne Raid promises an action-packed showcase featuring kabaddi legends such as:
- Pardeep Narwal
- Anup Kumar
- Rakesh Kumar
- Maninder Singh
- Sachin Tanwar
On the Australian side, the Aussie Raiders will be led by Josh Kennedy, a former Australian rules footballer renowned for his athleticism and leadership.
Josh Kennedy on Kabaddi
Despite being new to kabaddi, Kennedy sees similarities between kabaddi and Australian rules football.
“Traits like athleticism, power, speed, and strength are common in both sports. The kabaddi mat may be smaller than a football field, but spatial awareness and teamwork are just as important,” he shared.
The Future of Kabaddi
With the Melbourne Raid, the PKL is not just expanding kabaddi’s geographic footprint but also setting the stage for the sport’s global acceptance. By tapping into Australia’s vibrant sports culture, the league aims to build a new fanbase while giving local athletes a platform to shine.
This milestone event will undoubtedly be a defining moment for kabaddi, potentially ushering in a new era of international recognition and success.
The PKL Melbourne Raid is more than just an exhibition series—it’s a bold step toward kabaddi’s globalization. With star players, a unique format, and an ambitious vision, the event promises to captivate audiences in Australia and beyond.
As kabaddi sets its sights on uncharted territories, the Melbourne Raid marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for this age-old sport.
