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Record-Breaker Pardeep Narwal Bids Farewell to PKL After Glorious Career
In a heartfelt and emotional moment for kabaddi fans across the country, Pardeep Narwal, widely hailed as the ‘Dubki King’ of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), officially announced his retirement on Monday. The announcement came as a surprise to many during a live video chat with sports broadcaster Sunil Taneja, just days after he went unsold in the recently concluded PKL Season 12 Player Auction.
At just 28 years old, Pardeep’s decision to step away from professional kabaddi has sent ripples through the kabaddi community. With a record-breaking 1,801 raid points from 190 PKL matches, Pardeep leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that has not only defined his career but has also helped elevate the sport to new heights in India.
A Humble Beginning from Rindhana
Born in the small village of Rindhana in Haryana’s Sonipat district, Pardeep’s rise to fame was nothing short of inspirational. Starting his journey with the Bengaluru Bulls in Season 2 of PKL back in 2015, few would have predicted the heights the young raider would go on to scale. It was his quick reflexes, fearless attitude, and of course, his signature move – the “dubki” – that made him an instant fan favourite.
Despite a modest start in Season 2, it wasn’t long before Pardeep caught the eye of scouts and fans alike. His explosive raiding style, combined with incredible agility and timing, set him apart from his contemporaries.
Golden Era with Patna Pirates
Pardeep’s most iconic years came during his stint with the Patna Pirates from Season 3 to Season 7. It was with this franchise that he truly flourished and established himself as a legend of the game.
In Season 3, he led the raiding charts with 116 raid points and was instrumental in securing Patna’s maiden title. But that was just the beginning. The following year, he continued his fine form, securing 131 raid points and helping the Pirates retain their championship.
However, it was in Season 5 that Pardeep etched his name permanently into the PKL history books. That year, he amassed an unbelievable 369 raid points – a record that remains untouched to this day. His performances not only powered Patna to a third consecutive title but also set new standards for individual brilliance in the sport.
Fans still recall his astonishing 34-point performance in a single eliminator match during Season 5, a feat that showcased his dominance and unmatched skill under pressure.
The Big Move to UP Yoddhas
Recognizing his star power and consistent performances, the UP Yoddhas made headlines by signing Pardeep Narwal for a staggering INR 1.65 crore ahead of Season 8 – making him one of the most expensive buys in PKL history.
While expectations were sky-high, Pardeep didn’t disappoint. In Season 8, he scored 188 raid points and followed it up with 220 points in Season 9. His contributions were pivotal in taking the Yoddhas to the semi-finals in both seasons. Though his numbers saw a dip compared to his peak years, he continued to be a reliable and experienced figure in the squad.
In Season 11, Pardeep returned to Bengaluru Bulls, the franchise where it all began, and added another 111 raid points to his tally. While not the high-flying numbers of earlier seasons, his presence on the mat continued to command respect.
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A Decorated International Career
Pardeep’s accomplishments weren’t confined to the PKL alone. He was a vital part of the Indian national kabaddi team that clinched the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup title, showcasing his mettle on the international stage. He also represented India at the 2017 Asian Kabaddi Championship, where the team emerged victorious.
His international accolades reflect his consistency and ability to perform at the highest level. He was not just a PKL superstar, but a national hero who brought glory to Indian kabaddi.
The Final Chapter: A Quiet Exit
Despite his record-breaking resume, Pardeep Narwal went unsold in the Season 12 PKL Auction — a decision that stunned fans and pundits alike. While many speculated about possible comebacks or wildcard picks, Pardeep chose to bow out gracefully.
In his live interaction, he shared his thoughts on retirement:
“I have given everything to the game. I started my journey with nothing but a dream, and kabaddi gave me everything – fame, recognition, and respect. It’s time for the next generation to shine.”
His words echoed humility and grace — qualities that defined him both on and off the mat.
The Legacy of the Dubki King
Pardeep Narwal retires as the most successful raider in PKL history, with 1,801 raid points at an average of 9.47 raid points per match. He holds multiple league records, including:
- Most raid points in a single season (369 in Season 5)
- Most Super 10s in PKL history
- First player to cross 1,000 and later 1,500 raid points
His signature move, the dubki – where he dives low beneath defenders to escape – became a defining tactic and a crowd-puller. Young raiders across the country have tried to emulate it, but none quite like Pardeep.
Beyond numbers, it’s his spirit, perseverance, and sportsmanship that will remain etched in fans’ memories.
What’s Next?
While Pardeep hasn’t outlined specific post-retirement plans, sources close to the player suggest he may be involved in kabaddi in a mentoring or coaching capacity. His vast experience and deep understanding of the game make him a perfect candidate to nurture future stars.
There are also rumours about a possible biopic, given his rags-to-riches story and unmatched achievements. Whether it’s through coaching, commentary, or storytelling, Pardeep’s journey in kabaddi is far from over.
A Farewell Salute
Pardeep Narwal’s retirement marks the end of an era in Pro Kabaddi League. From being a raw talent out of Haryana to becoming the most feared raider in the league, he has set benchmarks that will inspire generations.
He retires not just as a kabaddi player, but as a legend, a record-breaker, and a trailblazer. The Pro Kabaddi League will never be the same without the “Dubki King”, but his impact will continue to reverberate in every raid, every match, and every young dreamer who steps onto the mat.
Thank you, Pardeep Narwal, for the memories, the records, and the magic.
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