By News18,Vivek Ganapathy

Copyright news18

The thrill and intensity of Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 on the JioStar Network is increasing with each passing week. After an exhilarating Week 1, trends suggest it could be the most exciting season ever, with new benchmarks being set almost every other match. Of the first 28 matches, 14 (approximately 50%) have been decided by five points or fewer, highlighting the razor-thin margins that keep fans engrossed. With only eight matches decided by more than 10 points and just a six-point spread separating the top eight teams, Season 12 is delivering a level of competitiveness that continues to intensify.
Season 12 has already seen unprecedented achievements, including the first-ever Golden Raid in Match 25 by Nitin Kumar Dhankar during Jaipur Pink Panthers’ win over Gujarat Giants. Bengal Warriorz’s captain, Devank Dalal, became the first player ever to score 50 raid points in his first three games, which included three Super 10s. Additionally, 21 different players have registered Super 10s, 20 players have posted High 5s, and seven have logged two or more Super Tackles.
Attacking play is defining the season, with multi-point raids up 40% (174 compared to 124 last season), Super 10s rising 41% (24 versus 17 last season), and average raid points per match climbing to 42 (up 10%).
Among the top raiders this season is Dabang Delhi K.C.’s Ashu Malik, who has shown remarkable consistency and an ability to seize game-changing moments. He was instrumental in a 16-point masterclass against Bengal Warriorz, enabling his team to achieve an unbeaten five-match start.
Ashu Malik reflected on the league’s pulse: “The competition and intensity this season have been on another level. Every match challenges us and pushes us to fight harder for the team. In this sport, one bold move or one point can completely change the momentum, and that’s what makes it so thrilling. The pressure, the excitement, and the energy from our fans drive us to give our absolute best every single game. I’m sure the weeks ahead will bring even more of that same thrill and intensity for everyone watching.”
Remarkable comebacks have defined the season. Dabang Delhi K.C.’s five-point win over Jaipur Pink Panthers in Match 20, Nitin Kumar Dhankar’s Pink Panthers’ Golden Raid victory against Gujarat Giants in Match 25, and Puneri Paltan’s come-from-behind triumphs all showcase high-pressure turnarounds. Other memorable fightbacks include the Bengaluru Bulls’ six-point surge in Match 17, Tamil Thalaivas’ seven-point revival in the season opener, and the Haryana Steelers’ gritty 11-point comeback against UP Yoddhas in Match 16.
Reflecting on his clutch moment, Jaipur Pink Panthers’ Nitin Kumar Dhankar shared, “It felt incredible to deliver the Golden Raid for my team. Moments like these show how anyone can change the game in an instant. Our defence and teamwork have been our strength, and winning these close matches proves Jaipur Pink Panthers are always ready for the big moments.”
With Rivalry Week ongoing, the upcoming matches are set to be even more exciting. Teams are closely matched, and the momentum can shift quickly, so fans can expect some intense battles. The season has already seen some notable moments, like the first-ever Golden Raid, and with many new stars rising, PKL Season 12 is shaping up to be the most thrilling yet. There’s plenty more action and drama ahead for fans to enjoy.
Catch the action of thrilling PKL Rivalry Week between September 15-20, live and exclusive on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.