This month's Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 9 auction was an intense affair, characterized by aggressive bidding that shattered all previous records. Pawan Sehrawat made history as the most expensive player ever in the PKL, moving to the Tamil Thalaivas for a massive 2.26 crores. Other high-stakes battles saw Puneri Paltan acquire the elite Iranian defender Fazel Atrachali, while the Bengaluru Bulls fought off competition to sign India's Vikash Kandola.
While the big names dominated the headlines, franchises also showed a strong belief in untapped talent. Several newcomers were signed for substantial sums, signaling that the teams see them as vital assets for Season 9. These debutants are now facing the pressure of the big stage, hoping to deliver standout performances that justify the investment. Here are the top three fresh faces we believe could truly excel in the upcoming tournament.
First up is Heidarali Ekrami from Iran. The 20-year-old raider joined U-Mumba for 14 lakhs and is known for bringing a high level of energy and a creative approach to his raids. Having already tasted success by winning the Junior World Championship with Iran, Ekrami is a highly gifted athlete who is finally getting his chance to prove himself in the high-pressure environment of the PKL.
Next, we have another Iranian talent, Reza Mirbagheri. The Jaipur Pink Panthers invested heavily in the 19-year-old defender, paying 26.80 lakhs to bring him on board. This price tag reflects his stellar form on the international stage, where he played a key role in Iran's Junior World Cup victory. Jaipur is banking on the teenager's defensive prowess to help them reclaim the championship trophy.
For Ujjwal Singh, the journey to PKL Season 9 is nothing short of a fairy tale. Just a few years ago during the seventh season, he was working as a mat boy in Ahmedabad; now, he has officially joined the Gujarat Giants as a left cover. Ujjwal is in a prime position to develop his game under the guidance of coach Ram Meher Singh—the same mentor who shaped Pardeep Narwal into a legend. Ujjwal is now hoping to emulate that legendary trajectory.