PKL Officials Trained for New Tiebreaker Rule

A 12-day camp in Hyderabad (August 15-27) prepared 45 officials, including 23 newcomers, for PKL Season 12’s new tiebreaker format. Led by Technical Director E. Prasad Rao, the training emphasized handling five raids per team, no eliminations, and bonus-line rules, ensuring accurate decision-making in high-stakes matches across venues.

When the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 got underway in Visakhapatnam, the spotlight was not just on the players but also on the referees who completed an intensive 12-day training camp in Hyderabad. Held from August 15 to 27, the program brought together 45 officials, including 23 newcomers, creating a strong mix of fresh talent and experienced referees. Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra had the largest representation with four referees each, reflecting the nationwide effort to strengthen officiating standards. According to Technical Director E.

Prasad Rao, the expanded training was necessary because of rule and format changes this season, particularly the introduction of a new tiebreaker system. Under the revised format, every tied match will now be decided by five raids per team, with no player eliminations during the tiebreaker and the baulk line doubling as the bonus line. Rao stressed that these changes have made officials’ roles “very, very crucial,” as every encounter could turn into a high-pressure contest.

The training emphasized both decision-making accuracy and efficiency, with officials being prepared to handle multiple matches per venue under strict time-bound protocols. This initiative reflects the league’s growing transformation into a high-intensity, precision-driven spectacle where every ruling can impact the outcome.