Pardeep Narwal

Pardeep Narwal, often hailed as the “Record-Breaker” and the “Dubki King,” is a name synonymous with Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) excellence. Born on February 16, 1997, in Rindhana, Haryana, India, Pardeep’s journey from a humble village to becoming a kabaddi icon is a testament to his talent, dedication, and relentless pursuit of perfection.

Pardeep’s PKL career began with the Bengaluru Bulls in Season 2, but it was his move to the Patna Pirates in Season 3 that truly ignited his stardom. Playing for the Pirates under the captaincy of Dharmaraj Cheralathan, he rapidly evolved from a promising raider to a force to be reckoned with. His signature move, the ‘Dubki’ – a low ducking escape under the defenders’ chain – became his trademark, bamboozling opponents and mesmerizing fans.

His stint with the Patna Pirates was nothing short of legendary. He led the team to three consecutive PKL titles (Seasons 3, 4, and 5), a feat unmatched in the league’s history. During this golden era, Pardeep amassed an astonishing number of raid points, consistently outperforming his peers and setting new benchmarks for raiding prowess. His ability to score multiple points in a single raid, often turning the tide of a match in an instant, made him a nightmare for defenders.

Season 5 marked the peak of Pardeep’s dominance. He finished the season with a staggering 369 raid points, a record that still stands as the highest individual score in a single PKL season. His exceptional performance earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, solidifying his position as the league’s premier raider.

Following his successful run with the Patna Pirates, Pardeep was acquired by the UP Yoddha for a record-breaking sum in the Season 8 auction. While he continued to perform well, the team dynamic and the pressure of expectations presented new challenges. He later moved to the Delhi Dabang KC in Season 10, where he aimed to add another dimension to their raiding department and help them chase another title.

Beyond his individual achievements, Pardeep’s impact on kabaddi extends to inspiring a new generation of players. His humble background and remarkable success story resonate with aspiring kabaddi athletes across India, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. He has also played a crucial role in popularizing the sport, attracting a wider audience and contributing to the growth of kabaddi both domestically and internationally.

Although his form has fluctuated in recent seasons, Pardeep Narwal remains a significant figure in the world of kabaddi. He holds numerous PKL records, including the most raid points (over 1600) and the most Super 10s (79). His legacy is secure, and his name will forever be etched in the annals of Pro Kabaddi as one of its greatest players.