15 Defence Services players included in Pro Kabaddi League

Pro Kabaddi League has announced the allocation of 15 players from the Indian Defence Services who will be an integral part of the fourth edition starting from June 25.

"Mashal Sports and the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) hosted the Indian Defence Services players' allocation and selection process for the fourth edition," a release said on Monday.

The league organised the Services Players' draft process, in alignment with the Services Sports Controlled Board (SSCB) and the AKFI, which received a strong positive response from participating franchises," it added.

"The allocation of players was executed by an Open Draw Process whereby a designated representative from each of the eight teams participated in the draw of lots. A total of 15 players were picked across these eight teams from a pool of 24 players."

International Kabaddi Federation president Janardan Singh Gehlot said: "The presence of Indian Defence Services top players has changed the game in the PKL's last edition.

"It is noteworthy on SSCB's part to make available an even larger pool of their best players this season. This is a great achievement for Pro Kabaddi and will make the league even more competitive compared to earlier editions."

Rohit Kumar, Nitin Tomar, Surjeet and Surjeet Singh, who were ranked amongst the top raiders and defenders of the third edition, have now been picked by Bengaluru Bulls, Puneri Paltan, UMumba and Patna Pirates respectively.

With their numerous successful tackles and raids, these players were a major catalyst to their teams' success last time.

The league will feature a total of 149 players across eight teams.

--IANS

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