What Pardeep Narwal’s PKL snub means for the future of Kabaddi
Pardeep Narwal, Kabaddi’s all-time top raider, went unsold in the 2025 PKL auction, leaving fans stunned and the league at a turning point. This piece looks back at his record run, the crowd’s strong reaction, and his next move off the mat. It also asks: Is this the end of a star era or the start of a bold new game?
The electrifying moment: Narwal goes unsold
In one of the most shocking turns in PKL history, Pardeep Narwal, the 'Dubki King' and the league’s all-time top raider, went unsold in the 2025 Pro Kabaddi League auction held from May 31 to June 1. When his name was called, not a single team raised a bid. The silence in the room was louder than the cheers he once drew. Fans were left in shock, with many saying he made Kabaddi famous and even likening his impact to that of Virat Kohli or MS Dhoni.
This was the first time in PKL history that its top raider was left out. Narwal, once a top pick worth over ₹1 crore, saw no takers at all. Some teams may have backed out due to his dip in form over the last few years. Others seem to be focused on young stars and new styles of play. Nevertheless, the snub marks the end of an era and the start of a bold new one.
Career flashback: Legacy of a Dubki King
Narwal’s mark on Kabaddi is clear. He was the first to cross 1,000 raid points and still holds the record for most raid points in a season (369) and most in one match (34). He led Patna Pirates to three straight PKL titles and later played for UP Yoddhas and Bengaluru Bulls. Though his form dipped in later years, he stayed a key name in the league and drew crowds just by being on the mat.
Fan outcry: End of an era?
The unsold moment trended on X (formerly Twitter), with fans expressing heartbreak and awe. Quotes ranged from ‘He made Kabaddi famous’ to ‘the Kohli and Dhoni of Kabaddi.’ Some even said Narwal’s omission was like dropping Lionel Messi or Sachin Tendulkar. The emotional response underscored his connection with the sport’s followers.
Narwal’s response: Retirement and reinvention
Days after going unsold, Narwal spoke on Instagram Live and quietly confirmed his retirement, saying his form had slipped and it was time for new stars to shine. He also shared he’d stay in the sport by coaching kids in his home village, helping young talent grow through drills and match play.
Narwal said he owed the game much and wanted to give back at the ground level. He thanked his fans for years of cheers, saying their love kept him strong through both wins and losses.
