PKL 2025: Pawan Sehrawat, Vijay Malik share excitement ahead of Southern Derby

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Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 gets underway with a southern derby clash between Tamil Thalaivas and Telugu Titans on August 29 at Visakhapatnam. The countdown is on, with fans awaiting action not just in Vizag, but also in Jaipur, Chennai, and New Delhi, as PKL's return reinvigorates the kabaddi faithful across the country.

In a spirited Instagram Live, the spotlight fell on two raiding sensations-Pawan Sehrawat of Tamil Thalaivas and Vijay Malik for Telugu Titans-former teammates who now face one another as rivals. Their camaraderie was evident even as competitive sparks flew.

"This opening match is special for me," Pawan Sehrawat reflected, eager for a fresh start with the Thalaivas after his stint in season 9 was halted by injury. "I couldn't spend much time on the mat last time. Now I have a chance to finish what I started."

He highlighted the strength of the new-look Thalaivas, saying, "The team is well-balanced, with experienced names like Arjun Deshwal, Narendra Kandola, as well as young stars in Nitesh Kumar. We're ready."

A return to Vizag stirs added emotion for Sehrawat, who previously played for the Titans. He admitted, "Playing against my former team in front of their home fans in Vizag-it's going to be intense. But I know I'll also get some love from the Titans supporters."

Vijay Malik, now fielding the lead role for the Titans, was equally optimistic. "Starting the season at home is a big boost. The Telugu Titans fans are among the most passionate in the league. The energy they bring gives us that extra edge," he said. "We've got a strong unit and a great mix this season. The goal is clear-we're going for the trophy."

The exchange between these two was lively yet underscored by competitive intent. As Sehrawat put it, "This season is going to be aggressive-on both sides. The opening game will set the tone. It's a raider's league now, and fans are in for a treat."

Pawan, who is ready to finally play in front of home supporters in Chennai, is relishing the atmosphere. "The support in Chennai is something else. I'm looking forward to giving them something to cheer about."

For Vijay and the Titans, renewed unity is the theme of Season 12. "Leadership is about responsibility, yes, but it's also about unity. Whether senior or junior, our team is one tight unit. We support each other on and off the mat."

Before signing off, both players paid tribute to Pardeep Narwal, who announced his retirement after the PKL 12 Player Auction. "We'll miss his signature Dubki," Sehrawat acknowledged. "Hope to see him in some role, still connected to Kabaddi."