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Gurugram, April 18, 2025 – A new sporting era has dawned in India as the Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) launched with great enthusiasm at Gurugram University, setting the tone for a thrilling two-week extravaganza that brings the vibrancy of kabaddi to a global stage. The first match of the tournament saw the Punjabi Tigers edge out the Tamil Lions in a high-intensity showdown with a final score of 33-31.
This global league, organized by the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA) and supported by the World Kabaddi body, aims to take India’s ancient sport beyond borders and unite cultures through competition.
Grand Launch Ceremony: Stars, Strategy, and Sportsmanship
The event was inaugurated by dignitaries like Gaurav Gautam, Haryana Sports Minister, and D. Suresh (IAS), Principal Secretary (Industries and Commerce), who praised the efforts to globalize the indigenous sport of kabaddi.
Kanthi D. Suresh, President of HIPSA, highlighted the league’s mission: “GI-PKL is not just a tournament — it’s a celebration of Indian roots, reconnecting the diaspora with their sporting heritage.”
The high-energy launch was followed by intense kabaddi action, drawing loud cheers from fans packed into the stadium and those watching across the globe.
Match Recap: Punjabi Tigers vs Tamil Lions
The Punjabi Tigers and the Tamil Lions treated fans to a spectacle that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of kabaddi. Though the Tamil Lions led in raid points (19 to 18), the Tigers turned the tide with aggressive defense, collecting 13 tackle points and 2 all-outs to claim a narrow victory.
It was a tactical battle from start to finish. While the Lions showed great agility in raiding, the Tigers’ well-timed blocks and coordinated tackles sealed the win. The final few minutes were tense, but the Tigers held their nerve to make history with the league’s first-ever win.
Day 1 Highlights: More Matches, More Action
Match 2: Haryanvi Sharks vs Telugu Panthers
The second clash saw the Haryanvi Sharks narrowly defeat the Telugu Panthers in a high-scoring contest that ended 47-43. The Sharks capitalized on defensive lapses and made the most of super raids in the final quarter.
Match 3: Marathi Vultures vs Bhojpuri Leopards
The final showdown of the day saw the Marathi Vultures dominate the Bhojpuri Leopards with a convincing 42-21 victory. Known for their gritty defense, the Vultures outclassed their opponents in every department, registering 22 tackle points and 5 super tackles.
Kabaddi Goes Global: 16 Diaspora-Backed Teams in Action
The Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League features 16 teams representing Indian communities from across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Both men’s and women’s teams will be competing in the 2025 season, making it one of the most inclusive platforms in kabaddi’s modern history.
Participating teams include:
- Punjabi Tigers
- Tamil Lions
- Haryanvi Sharks
- Telugu Panthers
- Marathi Vultures
- Bhojpuri Leopards
…and many more.
The league format includes a round-robin phase till April 27, followed by semi-finals and the grand finale on April 30.
Where to Watch
To ensure maximum outreach, the matches are being televised live on Sony Sports 3 and DD Sports, with matches beginning from 6 PM onwards every day.
Online platforms are also streaming the matches live for the Indian diaspora around the world, making it easy for kabaddi fans globally to stay connected to the action.
What GI-PKL Means for Indian Sports
The GI-PKL stands out not only for its global scope but for its cultural relevance. By embracing tradition and combining it with modern sports infrastructure and global representation, it pushes kabaddi toward becoming an international phenomenon — much like cricket or football.
The presence of diaspora teams further strengthens India’s soft power in the sporting world and inspires young athletes to view kabaddi as a professional, viable career option.
What’s Next?
With the first day ending on a high, anticipation builds for what’s to come. Upcoming matches promise fresh rivalries, breathtaking raids, and the rise of new kabaddi stars. GI-PKL has clearly struck the right chord — with passion, pride, and performance.
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