Gujarat Giants PKL 12 squad shaped by youth and leadership
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Mohammadreza Shadloui was appointed Captain ahead of PKL Season 12.
Gujarat Giants unveil new jersey in Ahmedabad ahead of the season opener.
Giants begin their campaign against U Mumba on 30 August at Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Vizag.
Adani Sportsline-owned Gujarat Giants today announced Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) star Mohammadreza Shadloui as Captain, while unveiling their new-look jersey at a press conference in Ahmedabad.
Kabaddi is one of India’s oldest sports, but with the arrival of the Pro Kabaddi League in 2014, it has transformed into a global spectacle. The Gujarat Giants, launched in 2017, have quickly built a strong fan base with their aggressive style of play and dedicated supporters in Ahmedabad. The jersey launch event is always a special occasion for fans, as it sets the tone for the season and connects them emotionally with the team.
The 12th edition of the PKL kicks off on 29 August in Vizag, with Gujarat Giants opening their campaign against U Mumba the following day at the Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium. The team will play 18 league-stage matches this season with their sights set firmly on the title.
The Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Visakhapatnam has previously hosted many high-profile kabaddi and badminton events, known for its electrifying atmosphere. Matches between Gujarat Giants and U Mumba are especially thrilling, as both sides share a history of close contests. Fans expect this clash to set the pace for the entire season.
The unveiling event was attended by Head Coach Jairvir Sharma, Assistant Coach Varinder Singh Sandhu and Adani Sportsline Chief Business Officer Mr. Sanjay Adesara.
Events like these not only present the team’s new jersey but also give fans a chance to meet the minds behind the team. Coaches and management play a critical role in shaping strategies, managing players, and keeping morale high through a long, demanding season.
This year’s PKL auction was a landmark for the Giants, headlined by the signing of Iranian powerhouse Mohammadreza Shadloui for ₹2.23 crore, the highest bid of PKL Season 12. A two-time PKL champion, reigning MVP and multiple-time Best Defender, Shadloui brings unmatched defensive firepower and proven leadership credentials.
The PKL 12 auction was historic as it saw record-breaking bids for star players, showing how kabaddi has grown into a commercially strong league. Shadloui, already regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, adds international experience and an aggressive style that will inspire younger players in the squad. His high bid also reflects the Giants’ commitment to building a squad capable of lifting the trophy.
Speaking on his appointment, Shadloui said, “I am proud to have the opportunity to captain Gujarat Giants in PKL 12. With most of our squad in their early to mid-20s, we are a young, energetic, and dynamic unit. We are excited about the season ahead, and I thank Adani Sportsline and our coaches for trusting me with this responsibility. We will give our best.”
Many teams in PKL are now turning to younger squads, which brings speed and energy into the game. A youthful unit guided by an experienced international star like Shadloui creates the perfect balance between raw energy and tactical maturity. Fans are expecting a fearless brand of kabaddi from this team.
Head Coach Jairvir Sharma, a veteran with over three decades of elite coaching experience, said, “I feel as excited and just as nervous as a player, as this will be my first PKL season. Our pre-season camp in Bengaluru has prepared us well. Adani Sportsline has taken great care of us, and we aim to come back to Ahmedabad with the title after a few months and celebrate with you.”
Bengaluru has become a hub for kabaddi training camps thanks to its world-class indoor facilities and kabaddi academies. Training in such professional environments helps players sharpen their fitness, tactics, and teamwork before a demanding season.
Assistant Coach Varinder Singh Sandhu said, “We had an intensive training camp in Bengaluru and are fully prepared for PKL Season 12. This will also be my debut in the league, and I’m grateful to Adani Sportsline for the opportunity. Our focus is on delivering strong performances throughout the season.”
Debut seasons are often special for coaches as well, and both Sharma and Sandhu bring decades of experience in shaping players at the grassroots and professional levels. Their involvement signals the Giants’ intent to build a long-term winning culture.
Mr. Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer, Adani Sportsline, added, “Our expectation is clear—Gujarat Giants will give their best and deliver a world-class kabaddi experience to fans in Gujarat and across India. We have always lived by our philosophy of providing a platform for talent to excel, and the team’s young average age reflects that. With our coaches’ proven track record, our objectives are clear, and the team is ready to put in a giant performance this season.”
Adani Sportsline, part of the Adani Group, has been investing heavily in sports infrastructure and talent development across India. Their vision of blending business and sports excellence has already made them a major name in cricket, kabaddi, and grassroots development programs. For Gujarat Giants, the backing of such an organisation ensures stability, fan engagement, and world-class facilities.
With a new captain, a strong squad, and clear ambitions, the Gujarat Giants step into PKL 12 with high hopes. For fans, the countdown has truly begun.
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