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Devank Dalal tops the charts at KCL auction
NEW DELHI: The Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) wasted no time signalling intent. On a high-octane auction night packed with ambition and brinkmanship, franchises opened their wallets wide, and Devank Dalal walked away as the biggest prize.
The experienced right raider emerged as the highest-bid player, with Bhiwani Bulls snapping him up for Rs 19.2 lakh, the top cheque of the inaugural KCL auction. “Being the highest bid brings responsibility,” Dalal said. “I’m grateful for the trust and ready to play fearless kabaddi.”
He was followed closely by Ayan Lochab, whose explosive raiding earned him Rs 18.4 lakh from Sonipat Stars, making him one of the most coveted names of the evening. “Their belief pushes me to work harder,” Lochab said, calling the move a chance to grow with the team.
Faridabad Fighters showed their hand early by signing Jaideep Dahiya for Rs 17.4 lakh. “I play with passion and aggression,” Dahiya said. “I’m looking forward to entertaining fans and pushing for something special.”
The bidding momentum held firm as Karnal Kings secured Sunil Malik for Rs 14.2 lakh, while Hisar Heroes strengthened their attack by landing Ashu Malik for Rs 12.2 lakh. Both players spoke of confidence, opportunity and the chance to repay faith on the mat.
Further down the board, Panipat Panthers added balance by picking up all-rounder Ankit Jaglan for Rs 9.8 lakh, while Gurugram Gurus and Rohtak Royals backed proven names, signing Neeraj Narwal for Rs 9.6 lakh and Vijay Malik for Rs 9.4 lakh, respectively.
By the end of the night, the message was unmistakable. The KCL is not easing into its debut season. It is charging in headfirst.
Top 10 highest bids at the KCL auction
• Devank Dalal, Bhiwani Bulls, Rs 19.2 lakh
• Ayan Lochab, Sonipat Stars, Rs 18.4 lakh
• Jaideep Dahiya, Faridabad Fighters, Rs 17.4 lakh
• Sunil Malik, Karnal Kings, Rs 14.2 lakh
• Ashu Malik, Hisar Heroes, Rs 12.2 lakh
• Ankit Jaglan, Panipat Panthers, Rs 9.8 lakh
• Neeraj Narwal, Gurugram Gurus, Rs 9.6 lakh
• Vijay Malik, Rohtak Royals, Rs 9.4 lakh
• Yogesh Dahiya, Faridabad Fighters, Rs 9.2 lakh
• Surjeet Singh, Hisar Heroes, Rs 7.6 lakh
With cheques signed, squads taking shape and expectations soaring, the inaugural KCL season is already playing at full throttle. The auction was only the opening raid. The real collisions are yet to come.
