The Patna franchise of the Pro-Kabaddi league has been named 'Patna Pirates', owner of the outfit Rajesh Shah announced at a press conference here today.
Unveiling the logo with much fanfare, Shah expressed hope that the Patna Pirates led by ace player Rakesh Kumar would bring glory and fame to this ancient city.
The Pro-Kabaddi league, slated to commence in July this year has eight teams from various cities. Rakesh is the most expensive player in the league, bought at a record fee of Rs. 12.8 lakh.
Rakesh is an Arjuna Awardee and was part of the Indian squad that won gold at the Asian Indoor games 2013 and Asian Games 2010.
Speaking on the occasion, Shah said, "We are delighted to launch our team identity today. Kabaddi is an Indian game with historical relevance and has a potential to become a global sport. There is huge talent for the game in our country and I hope the team will showcase the resilient ethos of the people of Patna.
"I appeal to the people of this city to come forward and support Patna Pirates. We have a state of the art facility in the Kankarbagh indoor stadium, an incredible coach in Rambir Singh Khokhar and a strong team. The package is wonderful".
Meanwhile Rakesh said "I am honoured to be chosen as captain of this talented side. I would like to thank Mr. Shah for embracing a sport like Kabaddi which will go a long way in promoting this ancient sport and giving the sport a professional status. I am confident that Patna Pirates will bring laurels to this city and state of Bihar."
Sunil Kumar, who was allotted to the Patna team as a state wild card, appeared in high spirits and said, "I've been playing Kabaddi all through my youth, It started in school I took to it as I'd watched all my friends and brother playing it. I stuck to the sport, represented Delhi and then eventually earned a call up for the Indian team, which was a huge moment for me, and I never thought it could be topped."
Pro-Kabaddi is an initiative of Mashal Sports, which intends to bring glory to the Indian sport of Kabaddi.
