In a heart-stopping finale of the 12th season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) held on 31 October 2025 at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium, Delhi, the Dabang Delhi K.C made history by defeating Puneri Paltan in a dramatic finish to lift the title for the second time. The match, which went down to the wire, showcased the growth, excitement and competitive intensity of India’s premier kabaddi league.
Match summary & key moments
- Delhi established control in the closing minutes but Puneri Paltan fought back hard — the final points were scored in the last few seconds of the match, underlining just how tight the contest was.
- Captain Ashu Malik’s leadership and several clutch raids by Delhi turned the tide. The team’s defensive stand in the last quarter proved decisive.
- For Puneri Paltan, this marks yet another near-miss: despite finishing the league phase strongly and entering the final, the title remains elusive.
Significance for PKL and Indian sports
- The fact that the league’s 12th season concluded with such a dramatic final highlights the maturing quality of PKL: tactical depth, player fitness and competitive parity are all on the rise.
- For the sport of kabaddi, which has steadily moved from niche to mainstream in India, the final — held in Delhi, a major market — underscores the reach and professionalisation of the league.
- The win strengthens Dabang Delhi’s franchise credentials, not just as a sporting unit but as a brand. Repeated title-success helps build fan base, commercial value and regional loyalty.
- The league’s ability to deliver compelling finals means greater broadcast appeal. With livestreaming on Jio Hotstar and telecast on Star Sports, such marquee finishes boost viewership and sponsor interest.
What teams and fans will take away
- Team strategy evolution: Delhi’s blend of effective raiding and tight defence, especially in high-pressure moments, might serve as a blueprint for others.
- Psychological edge: Puneri Paltan will now reassess mental and strategic approaches in finals, while Delhi gains the belief of closing big matches.
- Fan engagement & regional pride: For Delhi fans it’s a moment of celebration; for Puneri’s supporters, there will be reflection but also renewed hope for next season.
- Commercial impact: A tightly contested final enhances sponsor returns, brand exposure and adds to the overall attractiveness of PKL as a platform for corporates and athletes.
Final word
The PKL 2025 final was more than just a trophy deciding match — it was a showcase of how far the league has come in terms of competition, spectacle and professionalism. For Indian athletic culture, this edition contributes to kabaddi’s rise as a major franchise sport, not just a regional pastime. As Dabang Delhi lift the title, the story doesn’t end — it opens a larger narrative of franchise sport, athlete careers, fan communities and the continuing growth of kabaddi across India.
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Last Updated on: Friday, October 31, 2025 10:13 pm by Sakethyadav | Published by: Sakethyadav on Friday, October 31, 2025 10:13 pm | News Categories: Sports
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