The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) is set to make a historic media debut with the live broadcast of its first-ever player auction on December 28, 2025. In a move designed to maximize reach and fan engagement, the league has secured a comprehensive multi-platform distribution deal covering national television, OTT, and digital-first platforms.
By opening up this critical milestone to a nationwide audience, KCL is positioning itself as a transparent and inclusive sports property, building significant momentum ahead of its 2026 debut season.
The auction will be accessible to fans across every corner of India through both traditional and modern media channels. This “omnichannel” approach ensures that whether a viewer is in a metro city or a rural town, they can witness the birth of the league’s eight franchises.
- Television: DD Sports (Prasar Bharati) will provide pan-India terrestrial and satellite coverage.
- OTT Platforms: Fans can stream the event live on ZEE5 and the Wave platform.
- Digital Video: A seamless high-quality live stream will be available on YouTube via the official channels of both the Kabaddi Champions League and DD Sports.
The auction will see eight community-driven franchises compete to build balanced rosters. Each team will operate within a total player purse of ₹4 crore, strategically bidding for a mix of established veterans and fresh talent.
- Rohtak Royals, Karnal Kings, Panipat Panthers, Gurgaon Gurus
- Sonipat Stars, Faridabad Fighters, Bhiwani Bulls, Hisar Heros
The player pool, consisting of approximately 200 to 250 athletes, was selected through a rigorous scouting process that saw over 3,500 registrations and extensive trials in Sonipat. The shortlisted candidates represent the best of India’s grassroots talent and seasoned professionals.
KCL is not just about the high-stakes bidding; it’s a celebration of the sport’s deep-rooted cultural significance. By showcasing trials and auctions live, the league emphasizes its commitment to a merit-based ecosystem.
“We want everyone who loves kabaddi to feel connected to the league from the very beginning. This is where the future of kabaddi begins,” stated a KCL representative.
The 2025 auction serves as the foundation for the league’s sporting ecosystem, providing a clear career progression path for emerging players. With prestigious ownership groups—including real estate giants and motivational entrepreneurs—now at the helm, the league is poised to elevate kabaddi to a global professional standard.
Key Highlights:
- Historic Broadcast: The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) will air its first-ever player auction live on December 28, 2025, across DD Sports, ZEE5, Wave, and YouTube.
- Eight Teams, One Goal: Eight franchises, including the Panipat Panthers and Sonipat Stars, will bid from a total purse of ₹4 crore to form their inaugural squads.
- Massive Talent Pool: The auction features 200-250 players selected from over 3,500 registrations following extensive trials in Sonipat and surrounding regions.
- Inclusive Sports Property: By partnering with Prasar Bharati and digital giants, KCL aims to reach every segment of the Indian audience, emphasizing kabaddi’s inclusive and grassroots-driven nature.