KL Rahul fan Ashwal Rai hopes PVL success leads to Asian Games, Olympic qualification

Ashwal Rai has captained Kolkata Thunderbolts since their PVL debut in 2022.

Kolkata Thunderbolts have been one of the most consistent teams since the inception of the Prime Volleyball League (PVL). Champions in the inaugural edition in 2022, semi-finalists in Season 2, and strong contenders in every campaign, the Thunderbolts have set a benchmark of professionalism in the league.

As Season 4 is underway in Hyderabad, the same city where they lifted their maiden crown, captain Ashwal Rai is determined to take his side back to the top.

“Thunderbolts has set very high standards in PVL. They perform consistently. Actually, since the first year after becoming a champion, our coaches have been changing. We have to learn new things every year. We have to respect volleyball. We have to learn and grow.”

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That hunger to adapt and evolve has kept Kolkata relevant even in difficult years. In Season 2, they topped the standings with 12 points from seven matches before a semi-final loss to Bengaluru Torpedoes. Season 3 was tougher, with just three wins and an early exit, but Rai insists those setbacks have been turned into lessons.

“We have kept in mind the fall downs of last season and bought players. We have worked very hard in a short period of time. From the 5th of this month, we will try to give 100%.”

The Thunderbolts’ campaign began against Bengaluru Torpedoes on October 5, a fitting clash against the side that denied them in Season 2. Rai refuses to label any one team as the biggest threat.

“All teams are equal. I am not targeting any team. If I want to win, I will have to defeat 9 teams.”

As captain, he carries both tactical responsibility and personal performance pressure, but Rai is unfazed.

“I am comfortable with the players. I don’t feel much pressure. I concentrate on my game as well.”

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And for the 32-year-old blocker, the motivation goes beyond silverware. Winning, he says, would be deeply personal this year.

“Winning a title is special. But winning this time is emotional. So, I will try to win 100%.”

Respect for the league, eye on the future

The PVL has already changed Indian volleyball, bringing in international-standard coaching and raising the bar of professionalism. Rai credits the league for sharpening his discipline and outlook.

“After PVL, more fine coaches came to India to coach. I respect them. I respect volleyball, timing, discipline. I concentrate on my game. I have learnt everything from them.”

With the league expanding into new cities, Rai is also upbeat about the growth of Indian talent. Asked about the debut of Goa Guardians, co-owned by India cricketer KL Rahul, Rai replied:

“Goa is a good team. They have 14 good players. I am a fan of KL Rahul. His parents live in Mangalore. I am also from Mangalore. I want to meet him.”

The vision stretches beyond PVL. Rai believes the platform can translate into international success.

“We have 100% capacity in Indian Volleyball. If we work hard and get chances, we can do something in the Asian Games and even Olympic qualification.”

The Thunderbolts’ journey has already been one of highs, setbacks, and comebacks. As the 2025 season unfolds, Ashwal Rai’s words reflect a captain who understands the grind, respects the process, and still burns to bring glory back to Kolkata.

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