From Obscurity to Stardom: Ayan Lochab's Electrifying Season in PKL 2025
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Patna Pirates' stunning turnaround in Pro Kabaddi League 2025 was largely credited to the meteoric rise of 19-year-old raider Ayan Lochab. The Haryana-born talent finished the season as the league's highest raider with 316 points, joining the elite group of Pardeep Narwal and Devank Dalal by recording six 20+ point games in a single season. Lochab's remarkable journey from being a new player (NYP) to becoming the league's top raider has been nothing short of spectacular. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, he attributed his success to his consistent practice and hard work. The young raider's performances powered Patna Pirates to an unprecedented eight-match winning streak, the longest in PKL history, taking the struggling side into the playoffs. The turning point for Patna Pirates came when their defence improved significantly, and Lochab's self-belief and consistency kicked in. The team's resurgence was largely driven by Lochab's ability to perform under pressure, often scoring crucial points in clutch situations. When asked about his process in high-pressure situations, Lochab revealed that it's all about simple self-motivation: 'If my team needs the points, I have to get them, by hook or by crook.' This attitude has earned him recognition alongside legends like Pardeep Narwal and Devank Dalal. Reflecting on his breakout season, Lochab cited a match against Pune early in the season as a turning point that gave him a lot of confidence. The fan energy and the legacy of a three-time champion team motivated him to perform even better, and he credits the fans' support for giving the team belief. Looking ahead, Lochab has set his sights on performing even better next season and leading the team to the final. He also expressed his desire to play for India and win a medal, solidifying his commitment to the sport.
