In a unique pre-season initiative, the Gujarat Giants, a Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) team, and the Indian Men's Hockey Team came together for a special crossover event at the SAI Centre in Bengaluru. This interaction was part of the Gujarat Giants' preparations for the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League Season 12, which begins on August 29.
During the crossover, the Gujarat Giants players, including Himanshu Jaglan, Rakesh, Parteek Dahiya, Nitin Panwar, and V. Ajith Kumar, along with Head Coach Jaivir Sharma, Assistant Coach Varinder Singh Sandhu, and Fitness Trainer Abhishek Parihar, had the opportunity to interact with the hockey team. The kabaddi players drew inspiration from the hockey team and even tried their hand at hockey, while the hockey players experienced kabaddi drills in return.
Both teams are preparing for significant upcoming events. The Indian Men's Hockey Team is gearing up for their tour of Australia and the Asia Cup, while the Gujarat Giants are preparing for the new PKL season. The Indian Men's Hockey team is scheduled for a crucial tour to Australia from August 15 to 21, consisting of a five-match series. This tour will serve as vital preparation for the Asia Cup 2025. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the squad blends experienced players with fresh talent and aims to regain momentum after setbacks in the FIH Pro League 2024-25. The Asia Cup 2025 acts as India’s primary route to the FIH World Cup 2026.
The Gujarat Giants are looking to make a fresh start in PKL Season 12 after a disappointing performance last season. The team has appointed Jaivir Sharma as head coach and Varinder Singh Sandhu as assistant coach. Sharma brings over 30 years of experience and has guided the Indian team to gold medals at major events, while Sandhu has a proven track record in performance analytics and tactical acumen. The Giants have also revamped their squad, adding 13 new players at the Season 12 Player Auction. They spent ₹4.967 crore, including acquiring Iranian all-rounder Mohammadreza Shadloui for ₹2.23 crore. The team's management is aiming for their maiden PKL title.
The Gujarat Giants will begin their PKL Season 12 campaign against U Mumba on August 30. The team's strengths include a top-class raiding unit, with experienced raiders like Rakesh Sungroya, Parteek Dahiya, and Ajith V Kumar. The inclusion of Mohammadreza Shadloui, last season's Most Valuable Player, is also expected to bolster their performance. The Giants finished 11th in the 12-team competition last season.
