Maharashtra is where Kabaddi's heart truly beats: Manpreet Singh excited for PKL’s final leg in Pune

As the Pro Kabaddi League shifts from Noida to Pune, there is nothing separating the teams on the points table ahead of the final leg of the season. Despite this, one team that has shown consistency throughout are the Haryana Steelers, who will remain at the top of the points table as they head to Pune.

In a passionate discourse on the cultural significance of kabaddi, Haryana Steelers head coach Manpreet Singh spoke about Maharashtra's deep-rooted connection to the sport. "Maharashtra is where kabaddi's heart truly beats," he said as the side wrapped up the Noida leg with an impressive 42-30 win over the Tamil Thalaivas.

The coach painted a beautiful picture of Maharashtra's sporting passion, commenting on the local fans' love for the game. "When you go to a match in Maharashtra's stadium, people don't just come to watch a team - they come to support kabaddi itself," he explained.

"When you go to Maharashtra and play a good game in wrestling or kabaddi, it feels like it's connected to your very bones. You can smell its essence," he said, underlining the profound connection between the people and the game.

His words depict a state where sporting excellence is appreciated and deeply revered. "When a good player performs, whether they're from any part of India, if they have the skill, the people of Maharashtra will open their hearts and support them," he noted, highlighting the inclusive and passionate nature of the state's sporting culture.

Catch all the LIVE action from Pro Kabaddi Season 11 on the Star Sports Network and on Disney+ hotstar.