The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 13 is shaping up to be an exciting chapter for kabaddi fans, with all 12 franchises preparing to compete for the championship. Defending champions Dabang Delhi K.C. will face the challenge of maintaining their winning momentum, while former champions and title contenders will look to build squads capable of competing throughout the tournament.
The biggest talking point ahead of the new season is the probable starting seven of every team. A balanced Playing 7 can make a significant difference in kabaddi, where one successful raid, a crucial tackle or an unexpected Super Tackle can change the direction of a match.
However, predicting the final lineups before the official squads and team combinations are fully confirmed requires caution. Auction decisions, player availability, fitness and coaching strategies can all influence the selection. The following predictions are therefore early, provisional Playing 7 combinations based on player roles, previous performances and team requirements, rather than confirmed match-day lineups.
PKL Season 13: What to Expect From the New Season?
Season 13 will feature the league’s 12 established franchises, including Dabang Delhi K.C., Puneri Paltan, Patna Pirates, Jaipur Pink Panthers, U Mumba, Bengaluru Bulls, Bengal Warriors, Haryana Steelers, Telugu Titans, Tamil Thalaivas, Gujarat Giants and UP Yoddhas.
Dabang Delhi entered the new campaign with the confidence of reigning champions after defeating Puneri Paltan 31–28 in the Season 12 final. Their title defence will depend on maintaining defensive discipline and finding consistent points from their raiding unit.
Puneri Paltan, meanwhile, will be eager to go one step further after finishing as runners-up. Other franchises will look to strengthen their combinations through recruitment, young-player development and tactical adjustments. Individual player performances will also play a major role in determining team success, and exploring the PKL 2026 top raider prediction and who could finish as the best raider can help readers identify players expected to make an impact this season.
One important factor is that a team’s strongest seven does not necessarily consist of its seven most famous players. Coaches must consider raiding balance, defensive coordination, all-round ability and the availability of suitable replacements. A player who performs well in one combination may have a different role in another.
PKL Season 13 Playing 7 Prediction for All 12 Teams
The following table provides an early look at the possible starting combinations. These are analytical predictions, not official selections. Player movements, retention decisions and the final Season 13 squads must be checked before treating any lineup as confirmed.
| Team | Probable key players and selection focus |
| Dabang Delhi K.C. | Ashu Malik, Neeraj Narwal, Fazel Atrachali |
| Puneri Paltan | Aslam Inamdar, Mohit Goyat, Gaurav Khatri |
| Patna Pirates | Ayan Lohchab, Ankit Jaglan, Navdeep Singh |
| Jaipur Pink Panthers | Arjun Deshwal, a lead raider, experienced corner defenders |
| U Mumba | Sunil Kumar, Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh, balanced raiding support |
| Bengaluru Bulls | Yogesh Dahiya, Ankush Rathee, a dependable lead raider |
| Bengal Warriors | Devank Dalal, Maninder Singh, a strong defensive combination |
| Haryana Steelers | Jaideep Dahiya, Rahul Sethpal, Vinay |
| Telugu Titans | Vijay Malik, Pawan Sehrawat if retained and available, defensive support |
| Tamil Thalaivas | Pawan Sehrawat, Arjun Deshwal if retained and available, young raiders |
| Gujarat Giants | Mohammadreza Shadloui if retained and available, a lead raider, experienced defenders |
| UP Yoddhas | Surender Gill, Guman Singh, Sumit Sangwan |
Important: The table identifies players and roles worth monitoring; it does not establish that every named player belongs to the listed franchise for Season 13. The final Playing 7 for each team will depend on the confirmed squad after the relevant player transactions.
1. Dabang Delhi K.C. – Probable Playing 7
Dabang Delhi will begin the season with expectations firmly on their shoulders. Their championship-winning performance demonstrated the value of remaining composed during close matches, particularly when the opposition applies pressure in the final minutes.
Ashu Malik is an important attacking option because of his ability to contribute consistently during raids. Neeraj Narwal can provide additional attacking support, while Fazel Atrachali’s experience makes him a significant name to watch in defence if he remains available to the franchise.
A likely Delhi combination would include two primary raiders, a supporting raider or all-rounder and a coordinated defensive unit built around experienced defenders. The exact seven will depend on squad continuity and the team’s recruitment decisions.
Prediction: Delhi’s best route to another title is to protect its defensive structure while avoiding overdependence on one raider. Their experience in high-pressure matches could prove valuable.
2. Puneri Paltan – Probable Playing 7
Puneri Paltan will be determined to turn their runner-up finish into a championship. The Pune-based franchise has built its reputation around organised defence, disciplined movement and a structured approach to raiding.
Aslam Inamdar brings leadership and all-round value, while Mohit Goyat has previously offered an important attacking option. Gaurav Khatri is another name to monitor for the defensive setup, subject to the final squad.
Puneri’s ideal Playing 7 would contain a dependable lead raider, an attacking partner, an all-rounder and defenders who communicate effectively. The team’s success may depend on how quickly its raiders settle into the season and how consistently its defenders stop bonus points and successful escapes.
Prediction: Puneri Paltan should remain a contender if it maintains defensive consistency and develops a reliable second scoring option.
3. Patna Pirates – Probable Playing 7
Patna Pirates have a rich history in the competition and are known for producing dangerous raiding combinations. Ayan Lohchab’s performance in Season 12 made him a particularly important player to follow after he emerged as the season’s leading raider.
Ankit Jaglan and Navdeep Singh are also names associated with Patna’s recent squad structure. Navdeep’s defensive contributions could be especially important when the team faces opponents with powerful lead raiders.
The Pirates’ predicted seven should prioritise a high-volume raider, supporting attacking options and defenders capable of executing coordinated tackles. Their approach will need to balance aggressive scoring with the need to avoid unnecessary points conceded.
Prediction: Patna could challenge the leading teams if its attacking unit maintains its scoring rate and the defence performs consistently against experienced raiders.
4. Jaipur Pink Panthers – Probable Playing 7
Jaipur Pink Panthers have previously shown that tactical discipline and balanced team selection can be just as important as individual star power. Their early Season 13 selection will depend heavily on the confirmed status of their leading raiders and defenders.
Arjun Deshwal has been a prominent raiding name in recent PKL seasons, but his availability for Jaipur must be verified against the final Season 13 squad. If he is not part of the team, Jaipur will need another reliable primary raider capable of handling high-pressure situations.
The ideal combination would include a lead raider, a secondary scoring option, an all-rounder and four defenders with complementary skills. Jaipur must also ensure that its bench offers enough support when the first-choice defenders struggle.
Prediction: Jaipur’s chances will improve if it secures a dependable raiding leader and avoids inconsistent performances during the middle stages of the competition.
5. U Mumba – Probable Playing 7
U Mumba have traditionally relied on a combination of young talent, experienced leadership and defensive organisation. Their ability to build a consistent starting seven will be central to their Season 13 ambitions.
Sunil Kumar and Amir Mohammad Zafardanesh are players to monitor, depending on final squad confirmation. Sunil’s defensive experience and leadership qualities could be valuable, while Zafardanesh can provide an attacking option.
U Mumba’s strongest combination would feature two raiders who can share scoring responsibilities, a versatile all-rounder and a defence capable of adjusting to different opposition strategies. The team should avoid relying entirely on individual brilliance and instead focus on maintaining a steady flow of points.
Prediction: U Mumba could become a difficult opponent if its young players perform consistently and its experienced core remains available.
6. Bengaluru Bulls – Probable Playing 7
Bengaluru Bulls will be looking to rediscover the consistency that helped them win the PKL title in Season 6. Their Season 13 prospects will depend on the strength of their raiding department and the ability of their defence to handle high-scoring opponents.
Yogesh Dahiya and Ankush Rathee are names worth monitoring when assessing the Bulls’ likely combination. However, the franchise will need a confirmed lead raider and a balanced supporting unit to finalise its strongest seven.
The ideal lineup should feature a primary raider, a secondary attacker, an all-rounder and four defenders who can work together rather than relying on individual tackles. The Bulls must also improve their ability to recover quickly after conceding multiple points.
Prediction: Bengaluru could surprise stronger teams if it finds a consistent raiding combination and improves its defensive coordination.
7. Bengal Warriors – Probable Playing 7
Bengal Warriors will aim to build a more consistent campaign after previous seasons highlighted the importance of squad balance. Their selection strategy should focus on combining experienced attacking players with defenders who can deliver under pressure.
Devank Dalal and Maninder Singh are notable names to watch, subject to confirmation of their Season 13 availability and team affiliations. Their potential contributions illustrate the importance of having more than one scoring option.
Bengal’s probable seven should feature a lead raider, a supporting raider, a versatile all-rounder and four defenders. The team will need to maintain its defensive shape even when its primary raider is unsuccessful.
Prediction: Bengal Warriors could push for a strong finish if the attacking unit produces regular points and the defence avoids costly errors.
8. Haryana Steelers – Probable Playing 7
Haryana Steelers have demonstrated that a well-organised defensive system can become a major advantage in the Pro Kabaddi League. Their previous championship success also provides a useful foundation for building confidence ahead of another competitive campaign.
Jaideep Dahiya, Rahul Sethpal and Vinay are players to consider when discussing Haryana’s recent team structure. Their roles, alongside the final roster, will determine how the franchise constructs its starting seven.
Haryana’s ideal lineup would combine a dependable lead raider with an attacking partner and an all-rounder, supported by four defenders capable of executing coordinated tackles. The team should also develop a reliable backup plan for matches in which its first-choice raider struggles.
Prediction: Haryana could remain among the serious contenders if it preserves its defensive strength and finds enough attacking consistency.
9. Telugu Titans – Probable Playing 7
Telugu Titans will be hoping to turn their potential into consistent results. The franchise has invested in prominent players in previous seasons, but its success depends on how effectively the individual talents perform together.
Vijay Malik is a player to watch in the attacking department. Pawan Sehrawat could also be relevant to the prediction if his Season 13 status and availability are confirmed. The team must build its final combination around the players officially registered for the campaign.
A strong Telugu Titans seven should contain two reliable raiders, an all-rounder and a defence capable of supporting the attack with regular tackle points. Maintaining composure after conceding a big raid will be equally important.
Prediction: Telugu Titans have the potential to challenge established sides if their raiders perform consistently and their defensive unit becomes more dependable.
10. Tamil Thalaivas – Probable Playing 7
Tamil Thalaivas will be looking for a fresh start after a challenging previous campaign. Building the right combination will be essential, especially if the franchise continues to develop younger players alongside experienced performers.
Pawan Sehrawat and Arjun Deshwal have both been associated with Tamil Thalaivas in recent team discussions, but their participation and retention status for Season 13 must be verified before they can be included in a confirmed lineup. The team’s young-player recruitment could also influence its attacking options.
Tamil Thalaivas need a balanced seven with a primary raider, a secondary scorer, an all-rounder and four defenders. The coaching staff must focus on reducing empty raids and improving the team’s ability to defend leads.
Prediction: Tamil Thalaivas could improve their standing if their final squad offers attacking depth and the younger players adapt quickly to senior-level competition.
11. Gujarat Giants – Probable Playing 7
Gujarat Giants will enter the new campaign with the objective of improving their consistency and competing more effectively against the league’s strongest franchises. Coaching strategy and auction decisions will play a major role in determining their final lineup.
Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh is a major defensive name associated with Gujarat’s recent squad history, but his Season 13 team status must be confirmed. If the franchise does not have access to a comparable defensive leader, it will need to recruit players who can maintain pressure on opposition raiders.
The Giants’ ideal seven should contain a reliable primary raider, a supporting attacker, an all-rounder and four defenders with clear responsibilities. Strong communication between the corners and covers could help the team improve its tackle success rate.
Prediction: Gujarat’s prospects will depend on the strength of its final defensive unit and whether the raiders can consistently convert opportunities into points.
12. UP Yoddhas – Probable Playing 7
UP Yoddhas have the potential to build a competitive side by combining attacking depth with a disciplined defensive approach. Their Season 13 prospects will depend on the final squad and the team’s ability to establish a consistent tactical identity.
Surender Gill, Guman Singh and Sumit Sangwan are players worth monitoring based on recent team structures. Their availability and roles will need to be checked against the confirmed Season 13 roster.
UP Yoddhas should look to field two dependable raiders, a supporting all-rounder and four defenders who can handle both quick raids and high-pressure closing stages. The team will also benefit from reducing unnecessary errors when attempting to secure bonus points or defensive holds.
Prediction: UP Yoddhas could compete for a playoff position if the team maintains its defensive discipline and develops a reliable attacking partnership.
Four Factors That Could Decide the Best Playing 7
Selecting a successful starting seven involves much more than choosing the biggest names. Coaches must consider how each player contributes to the overall structure.
- Raiding balance: A dependable primary raider should be supported by another player who can score when the lead attacker is under pressure.
- Defensive coordination: Corners and covers must communicate effectively and avoid making unnecessary individual challenges.
- All-round ability: Players who can contribute in both departments provide valuable flexibility during close matches.
- Bench strength: Substitutions can change a game, especially when a starter is injured, struggling for form or targeted by the opposition.
These factors are likely to influence team selection throughout the competition. The strongest combinations will be those that adapt to different opponents rather than depending on a single tactical approach.
Which Team Has the Strongest Predicted Playing 7?
Dabang Delhi K.C. have a strong starting point as the defending champions, while Puneri Paltan and Patna Pirates are teams worth watching because of their recent performances and established kabaddi traditions. Haryana Steelers could also remain competitive if their defensive structure continues to deliver results.
However, naming one team as the clear favourite before the final squads are confirmed would be premature. A major auction signing, an unexpected player departure or a fitness concern could change the outlook significantly.
The best early prediction is that teams with a dependable lead raider, an experienced defensive core and effective backup options will have the clearest path towards a playoff place. Once the official squads are available, the Playing 7 predictions can be revised player by player.
Conclusion
PKL Season 13 promises another competitive contest among India’s leading kabaddi franchises. Dabang Delhi K.C. will aim to defend their title, while Puneri Paltan, Patna Pirates, Jaipur Pink Panthers and other contenders will look for ways to challenge the champions.
Although early Playing 7 predictions offer an interesting look at potential team combinations, the final outcome will depend on confirmed rosters, coaching decisions, fitness and on-mat performances. The teams that combine consistent raiding with organised defence are likely to have the greatest chance of progressing deep into the tournament.
For fans, the most important development to follow will be the final squad announcements. They will provide the clearest picture of each franchise’s strengths, weaknesses and potential starting combination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many teams will play in PKL Season 13?
Twelve franchises are expected to compete in Season 13, continuing the league’s existing team structure.
2. Who are the defending champions of PKL Season 13?
Dabang Delhi K.C. enter Season 13 as the defending champions after defeating Puneri Paltan 31–28 in the Season 12 final.
3. Are the PKL Season 13 Playing 7 predictions confirmed?
No. These are provisional predictions based on recent team structures and player roles. Official squads, player movements and match-day selections must be verified before the lineups are treated as final.
4. Which team could be the strongest contender in Season 13?
Dabang Delhi K.C. deserve early consideration because they are the defending champions. Puneri Paltan, Patna Pirates and Haryana Steelers are also worth watching, although the final squads could significantly change the competition.
5. What makes a strong Playing 7 in kabaddi?
A strong seven generally combines reliable raiders, a versatile all-rounder, coordinated defenders and players who can remain composed during pressure situations.
