Kabaddi has long been considered an Indian-dominated sport, with its roots deeply embedded in the country’s culture. However, over the past few years, a new powerhouse has emerged in the sport—Iran. Iranian kabaddi stars have taken the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) by storm, challenging the dominance of Indian players and proving that kabaddi is no longer confined to South Asia.
But what makes Iranian kabaddi players so successful in the league? Let’s explore their rise, impact, and reasons behind their dominance in PKL.
The Beginning: Iran’s Entry into Kabaddi
Iran’s kabaddi journey began in the late 20th century when the sport was introduced to the country. While India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh had a stronghold in kabaddi, Iran took an organized approach to the sport.
- The Iranian Kabaddi Federation started promoting the sport at the grassroots level.
- Kabaddi was integrated into school and university sports programs.
- Iran sent teams to international kabaddi tournaments, gaining valuable exposure.
Their breakthrough came in the 2006 Asian Games, where Iran finished runners-up to India. This performance signaled the arrival of Iran as a serious kabaddi force.
The Rise of Iranian Players in PKL
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), launched in 2014, became a game-changer for kabaddi. Indian players initially dominated, but as the league expanded, Iranian players started making their presence felt.
Key Moments of Iran’s Rise in PKL:
📌 2015: Hadi Oshtorak became the first Iranian player to be picked in the PKL auction.
📌 2017: Fazel Atrachali and Abozar Mighani became defensive superstars.
📌 2018: Fazel Atrachali became the first foreign captain in PKL history.
📌 2019-Present: Multiple Iranians have been among the highest-paid players in PKL auctions.
Iranian players have become an integral part of PKL teams, excelling in both offense and defense.
Why Do Iranian Players Dominate the League?
Iran’s success in PKL is no accident. Several factors contribute to their growing dominance:
1. Strong Defensive Skills – “The Wall of PKL”
Iranian players, particularly in defense, have redefined the role of defenders in PKL. Players like Fazel Atrachali, Mohammadreza Chiyaneh, and Abozar Mighani have been defensive stalwarts.
✅ Fazel Atrachali – The only foreigner to win the PKL Best Defender Award twice.
✅ Mohammadreza Chiyaneh – Holds the record for most High 5s in a season.
🔹 Why are Iranians so good at defending?
- Physical strength – Iranian players are taller and bulkier, making them tough to tackle.
- Grip and body balance – They use their core strength to hold raiders firmly.
- Advanced defensive strategies – They execute blocks, dashes, and thigh holds with precision.
2. International Exposure & Competitive Mindset
Iranian players train in high-intensity environments, facing teams from India, South Korea, and Bangladesh. Their experience in international tournaments gives them an edge.
- Iran won the 2018 Asian Games Gold Medal, defeating India in the semifinals.
- They consistently finish in the top 3 in the Kabaddi World Cup.
🔹 How does this help in PKL?
- Iranian players are mentally tough and don’t get intimidated.
- They have adapted to Indian kabaddi styles and improved their raiding skills.
3. Leadership & Tactical Understanding
Iranian players aren’t just great defenders; they are also excellent leaders.
🏆 Fazel Atrachali (Captain, U Mumba, and Gujarat Giants) – The first foreign captain in PKL history.
🏆 Mohammadreza Chiyaneh – A natural leader, commanding defenses with authority.
🔹 What makes them great leaders?
- Strong game awareness and ability to read raiders’ movements.
- Cool-headed under pressure, making smart defensive decisions.
- Experience in international tournaments helps in high-pressure PKL matches.
4. Adaptability to Indian Kabaddi Culture
Despite coming from a different background, Iranian players have seamlessly adapted to Indian kabaddi.
🔹 How have they adapted so well?
✅ Learning Hindi & Indian Kabaddi Terms – Many Iranian players speak Hindi fluently, which helps in team communication.
✅ Adjusting to PKL’s Fast-Paced Format – They have embraced the attacking style of PKL.
✅ Training with Indian Coaches – Working with Indian kabaddi legends has improved their skills.
Top Iranian Players in PKL History
Here are the Iranian stars who have made a lasting impact in the Pro Kabaddi League:
| Player Name | Position | PKL Teams | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fazel Atrachali | Left Corner | U Mumba, Gujarat Giants | 2-time Best Defender, First Foreign Captain |
| Mohammadreza Chiyaneh | All-Rounder | Patna Pirates | Most High 5s in a Season |
| Abozar Mighani | Right Corner | Telugu Titans, Gujarat Giants | One of PKL’s best tacklers |
| Hadi Oshtorak | Defender | Patna Pirates | First Iranian in PKL |
| Meraj Sheykh | All-Rounder | Dabang Delhi | Known for his ‘Scorpion Kick’ |
The Future of Iranian Players in PKL
Iranian kabaddi players are here to stay, and their dominance is likely to grow in the coming years.
🔹 What’s next for Iranian stars in PKL?
✅ More Iranians will become team captains.
✅ Young Iranian players will continue to join PKL teams.
✅ Teams might build entire defensive setups around Iranian defenders.
As Iran keeps producing top kabaddi talents, we can expect more Iranian superstars to shine in PKL, challenging India’s dominance in the sport.
Final Thoughts: A New Kabaddi Powerhouse?
Iranian kabaddi players have changed the landscape of PKL, proving that kabaddi is no longer just an Indian game. With world-class defenders, fearless raiders, and smart tacticians, Iran has become a kabaddi powerhouse.
