‘Junior players will benefit the most from PKL Melbourne Raid,’ Pardeep Narwal ahead of mega clash

In an emotional conversation about PKL Melbourne Raid set to take place on November 28 in Australia, PKL legend Pardeep Narwal revealed the profound impact the sport has had on his life. Speaking candidly about his early days, Narwal shared that when he first started playing Kabaddi, his modest dream was simply to secure a job in the armed forces through sports quota; little did he imagine representing the sport in a country like Australia.

“I never imagined this,” Narwal reflected, his voice carrying the weight of his journey. “I only thought about getting a job, maybe in the army through Kabaddi, just to help run my household better. I never dreamed that I would travel to other countries to play, that my name would become so big. What can I say - life has completely transformed.”

The PKL Melbourne Raid holds special significance as it marks the league’s and Mashal Sports’ ambitious international expansion. For Narwal, who has been with the Pro Kabaddi League since its second season, this Australian venture represents more than just matches. “Since Pro Kabaddi League Season 2, our lives have changed completely. This Australia tour is significant not just for us but also for the junior players going with us, and even for the seniors who have left kabaddi.”

He emphasized that PKL hasn't just transformed his life but has been a life-changing force for every player involved in the league. “Not just one person - everyone who plays Pro Kabaddi, their lives have been transformed by PKL. I believe this firmly. The upcoming junior players will also rise - if not today, then tomorrow or in the next season. Their lives will change when they reach this level.”

Looking toward the future with hope, Narwal spoke warmly about the upcoming generation. “The biggest thing is that they're going with such senior players,” he noted, emphasizing how the juniors will learn crucial discipline from veterans.

He believes this tour will create opportunities for cultural exchange and learning, even for the Australian team: “We've heard a coach from India has been training them for one and a half months... our senior players who are going will teach them something too. In the future, it will be a joy to see their team and players reach Pro Kabaddi.”

The PKL Melbourne Raid isn't just another tournament for Narwal - it's a dream he never dared to dream, now becoming a reality. His journey from aspiring for a modest job to playing in international stadiums embodies the transformative power of PKL and the sport of kabaddi.

PKL Melbourne Raid will be broadcast on Star Sports network and streamed on Disney+Hotstar in India, and Channel 7 in Australia.