In a major move ahead of PKL Season 12, star raider Naveen Kumar has joined Haryana Steelers for INR 1.20 crore, according to The Bridge. The former Dabang Delhi K.C. has amassed 1102 raid points and now returns to his home state and reunites with coach Manpreet Singh. As per Kabaddi Adda, he’s among the top 10 Crorepati signings of the season, boosting the defending champions’ title hopes.
[REPORT] Naveen Kumar Comes Home to Haryana Steelers in Blockbuster PKL Move
The PKL Season 12 auction saw many big moves, but none bigger than Naveen Kumar’s ₹1.2 crore signing with Haryana Steelers. The star raider, who built his legacy with Dabang Delhi, is now set to return to his roots.
This marks his first-ever appearance in the auction, and he made it count.
With 1102 raid points in just six seasons, Naveen is one of the league’s most consistent and feared players. His move to the defending champions instantly boosts their title chances and brings a fresh wave of excitement to the Steelers’ camp.
For fans in Haryana, it’s a full-circle moment. Watching their homegrown talent wear the state’s jersey on the biggest kabaddi stage is a dream finally coming true.
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[WHAT’S HAPPENING] A Champion Joins a Champion Team
Naveen made it clear that he was constantly thinking about playing for Haryana. He said, “I always thought I should play for Haryana Steelers, and now it’s finally happening,” following the auction.
The Haryana Steelers, already rich in talent with players like Vinay, Shivam Patare, and Vishal Tate, now have one of the best raiders in PKL history in their lineup.
The squad isn’t just relying on talent. They’ve built a winning culture, and Naveen fits right into that mindset. “We are the defending champions. We play like one unit and believe in each other,” Naveen said.
That belief will now be stronger than ever as they enter PKL Season 12.
[UPDATE] Manpreet Singh and Naveen: A Deadly Combo in the Making
Another reason this move feels right is the presence of head coach Manpreet Singh. Known for his passionate and high-energy coaching style, Manpreet has earned a name for pushing players beyond limits.
Naveen is already looking forward to working with him. “Manpreet sir is full of energy. Everyone has seen what he brings to a team. I’m really excited to play under him,” he said.
This might be the beginning of a unique collaboration because of Manpreet’s aggressive strategies and Naveen’s composed yet explosive game. One that could take centre stage in PKL Season 12 and beyond.
Tickets booked ✅ Naveen Express arrives at Haryana Steelers for ₹1.20 Cr 🚄💥#PKL #ProKabaddi pic.twitter.com/1s9Xzkae64
— ProKabaddi (@ProKabaddi) June 11, 2025
The Opinion of Jyoti Sharma
There’s more to this move than numbers, awards, or big price tags. It has to do with identity. In sports, stories like Naveen’s return to Haryana are uncommon. One where a local hero rises leaves a mark elsewhere and comes back home to give back.
For the Haryana Steelers, this is more than just a signing—it’s a statement. They’re not just building a team. They’re building a legacy.
Every match will be energized by Naveen’s presence as PKL Season 12 approaches. A squad eager for back-to-back titles, more unity on the mat, and intense performances are what fans can anticipate.
The Dhakad Toli may be the rightful owner of PKL Season 12 if the spirit in the camp is to be believed.
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