PKL 12: Nitin Rawal to lead Jaipur Pink Panthers; Reza Mirbagheri named vice-captain

Jaipur Pink Panthers will start their campaign against Patna Pirates in PKL 12.

The 12th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL 12) is all set to commence on Friday, August 29, at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Vizag.

Ahead of the commencement of the season, two-time champions Jaipur Pink Panthers are proud to announce Nitin Rawal as their captain and Reza Mirbagheri as the vice-captain for PKL 12.

Nitin, who first joined the Jaipur Pink Panthers in Season 5 as a New Young Player (NYP), was with the team until Season 8 and has rejoined the squad this year.

Over the years, he has developed into a mature, dependable all-rounder whose experience and leadership qualities make him the natural choice to lead a youthful and energetic Jaipur side this season.

Joining him in leadership will be Reza Mirbagheri, who has been appointed as Vice-Captain. Reza became a Panther in Season 9, the year Jaipur Pink Panthers lifted the championship, and has since been the spine of the team’s defense.

Also Read: PKL 12: Jaipur Pink Panthers’ full schedule & squad for Pro Kabaddi 2025

His consistency, determination, and tactical presence have made him one of the most trusted and respected members of the squad.

With a new-look squad and several young faces joining in, the leadership group of Nitin and Reza, guided by Head Coach Mr. Narender Redhu, will play a crucial role in steering the Panthers this season. After concluding a high-intensity camp in Dehradun, the team heads to Visakhapatnam for their season opener against Patna Pirates on September 2, 2025.

Nitin Rawal, Captain of Jaipur Pink Panthers, said: “It feels like coming full circle for me. I started my PKL journey as a young player with Jaipur Pink Panthers, and today, to lead this team as captain is an incredible honor. We have a young, energetic squad, and I am confident we will give our best to make our fans proud.”

Reza Mirbagheri, Vice-Captain of Jaipur Pink Panthers, said: “Jaipur Pink Panthers has been my home since Season 9, and being trusted with the vice-captaincy is a matter of pride for me. I look forward to working closely with Nitin and the team to bring out our best on the mat and continue the Panther spirit.”

Head Coach Mr. Narender Redhu said: “Nitin and Reza complement each other well as leaders. Nitin understands the culture of this franchise deeply, and Reza has been the backbone of our defense since our championship season. Together, they bring balance, maturity, and energy; qualities we need for a successful season.”

Mr. Bunty Walia, CEO of Jaipur Pink Panthers, added: “This season represents a fresh chapter for the Pink Panthers with a dynamic new squad. In Nitin and Reza, we have a leadership duo that truly embodies our ethos. Their experience, discipline, and drive will inspire our young team and help us perform with passion and consistency.”

The Jaipur Pink Panthers look forward to beginning their campaign with determination, unity, and the roar of their fans.

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