Paralympic javelin throw gold medallist Navdeep Singh recently praised the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) for its transformative impact on the sport of kabaddi, acknowledging how the league has significantly raised the standard of the game and brought about a shift in its professional landscape. In a press conference ahead of the PKL 11 final, Singh lauded the league's contribution to the evolution of kabaddi, stating that since the introduction of PKL, the sport has undergone a remarkable transformation.
Singh, who made history as a javelin throw champion at the Paralympics, spoke about how the standard of kabaddi has risen significantly due to PKL’s presence, emphasizing that sports science has played an equally crucial role in enhancing the game. "I believe PKL contributes about 19% to the development of kabaddi," Singh remarked. He highlighted the importance of the league in modernizing the sport, making it more competitive, professional, and appealing to both players and fans alike.
The Paralympic gold medallist also discussed the intense physical demands of kabaddi. Reflecting on his own experience of playing as a defender during his school days, Singh explained that kabaddi is a high-risk sport due to the physicality involved. "In kabaddi, there's a higher risk of injury because when one raider goes in, three or four players can apply force at once," he said. This underscores the growing need for proper fitness, conditioning, and injury prevention strategies in kabaddi, with the modern game demanding a higher level of athleticism and preparation from players.
Singh also took the opportunity to reflect on the deep cultural roots of kabaddi in Haryana, a state known for its strong sporting traditions. He emphasized that kabaddi has been a significant part of the local sports culture, with most athletes in Haryana having played the sport at some point in their lives. "It would be rare to find an athlete who hasn't played kabaddi at least once in their life in Haryana," he remarked. This connection to the state's sporting identity remains a strong influence, and Singh, while supportive of all teams, admitted that his heart lies with Haryana.
"The game has reached such a significant level now," Singh said, reflecting on the exponential growth of kabaddi since the inception of the Pro Kabaddi League. What was once viewed primarily as a rural sport has now transformed into a highly professional and competitive spectacle, attracting fans and players from all over the world. Singh believes PKL has been pivotal in this transformation, helping to elevate kabaddi into a major sports league and providing a platform for talented players to showcase their skills on a global stage.
In conclusion, Navdeep Singh's praise for the Pro Kabaddi League underscores the immense contribution the league has made to the sport's development, from raising its professional standards to ensuring its growth through modern training and sports science. PKL has not only brought kabaddi into the limelight but also helped build a strong foundation for its future, making it a truly professional and globally recognized sport.
