The Evolution Of Refereeing In Pro Kabaddi League: A Decade Of Progress

The Pro Kabaddi League, launched in 2014, has transformed kabaddi in many ways to make the sport more accessible to the fans. As we enter a new decade of the PKL, E Prasad Rao, fondly known as Kabaddi Rao and the Technical Director of PKL, shared valuable insights into the remarkable journey of refereeing in the league over the last 10 years. Ahead of the new season, Kabaddi Rao and his team held a camp for 45 referees from October 1 to 14 - with eight female officials, including 20 first-timers - a stark increase from last season's 37 referees. 

With less than a week remaining for the first match of PKL 11 between the Telugu Titans and the Bengaluru Bulls at the GMCB Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad on Friday, October 18, we caught up with the Technical Director of the PKL to discuss the growth of the refereeing department over the last 10 years.

"I was involved with PKL from the very beginning, helping to shape the rules and regulations to enhance the game's appeal," Rao recalled. This early involvement set the stage for a comprehensive approach to officiating that has evolved through the years.

One of the most significant developments has been the introduction of a structured training program for referees. "The concept of formal referee training courses and workshops came about after PKL's inception," Rao explains. "It's not just about getting a certification and blowing a whistle anymore. We're teaching officials to truly understand their role." 

This shift from ad-hoc officiating to professional development has been a game-changer.

The PKL has pioneered several innovations in officiating, most notably the introduction of the TV umpire. "PKL was the first to introduce TV umpiring in kabaddi," Rao stated proudly. This