Founded in 2013 and part of the inaugural Pro Kabaddi League season in 2014, Bengaluru Bulls quickly made a name for themselves with their aggressive style of play. Their proudest moment came in Season 6 (2018), when they won their first and only PKL championship by defeating Gujarat Fortune Giants in a thrilling final.
Since then, the Bulls have shown flashes of brilliance but also periods of inconsistency. Some seasons ended in playoff heartbreak while others saw them struggle for form. With a new campaign in 2025, the Bulls are once again in the spotlight. Can they balance defense and raiding, and can their younger stars step up when it matters most?
Team Identity and Home Support
- Established: 2013
- City: Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Home Ground: Shree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium
- Team Colors: Red, black and yellow
- Ownership: Managed under Kosmic Global Media Pvt. Ltd.
The Bulls are not just a team but a symbol of pride for fans in Karnataka. Home games at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium are famous for their electric atmosphere, with chants, music and the roar of the crowd making it a fortress.
Key Achievements
| Season | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Reached the final, finished as runners-up |
| 2018 | Won their first PKL title by beating Gujarat Fortune Giants |
| 2019–2024 | Mixed results, with playoff appearances but no further titles |
These highs and lows have shaped the Bulls’ reputation as fighters who can surprise anyone on their day but also as a team searching for consistent dominance.
Bengaluru Bulls in PKL 2025
Coach and Captain
- Head Coach: B.C. Ramesh, an experienced strategist who has worked with several PKL teams.
- Captain: Yogesh Dahiya, a defender trusted with leading a balanced but evolving squad.
Notable Players
- Akash Shinde (Raider): The main attacking spearhead, expected to shoulder much of the scoring.
- Aashish Malik and Shubham Bitake: Young talents who could emerge as breakout performers.
- Alireza Mirzaeian and Ahmadreza Asgari: Foreign recruits adding versatility and experience.
- Defensive Core: Anchored by Yogesh Dahiya and supported by Ankush Rathee and Lucky Kumar.
Strengths
- Strong defensive setup with experienced corners and covers
- A mix of young Indian players and foreign talent with fresh energy
- Coaching experience under B.C. Ramesh
Weaknesses
- Overdependence on Akash Shinde in raiding
- Lack of proven leaders in crunch situations
- Inconsistency across longer stretches of the league
Current Form in 2025
- Matches played: 9
- Wins: 5
- Losses: 4
- Raid success rate: About 37%
These numbers show that while the Bulls are competitive, they still need sharper finishing in tight contests and higher efficiency in raiding.
Tactical Approach
The Bulls are likely to stick to a defense-first structure, building pressure through corners and using all-rounders to balance the game. In attack, Akash Shinde will carry the main responsibility, with younger raiders expected to provide crucial support. Super tackle situations and disciplined play will be vital if they want to edge out close matches.
Why This Season Matters
- A chance at redemption: After several underwhelming seasons, fans are eager for a strong playoff run.
- Showcasing youth: Many untested players now have a platform to shine.
- Commercial and fan growth: A successful season could strengthen the Bulls’ brand value and re-energize the Bengaluru fan base.
- Strategic reset: With a mix of veterans and newcomers, this season is about building a team for both the present and future.
FAQ
Q1: Who is the coach of Bengaluru Bulls in PKL 2025?
A: The coach is B.C. Ramesh, a former player and experienced kabaddi coach.
Q2: Who is leading the team as captain this season?
A: Defender Yogesh Dahiya is captaining the Bulls in 2025.
Q3: When did Bengaluru Bulls win their first PKL title?
A: They lifted the trophy in 2018 during Season 6 by defeating Gujarat Fortune Giants.
Q4: Who are the key players to watch this season?
A: Akash Shinde in raiding, Yogesh Dahiya in defense, and newcomers like Aashish Malik and Shubham Bitake.
Q5: Where do the Bengaluru Bulls play their home matches?
A: Their home ground is the Shree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Q6: What are the main challenges for the Bulls this season?
A: Dependence on a single raider, lack of proven finishers in crunch games and the need for consistency throughout the league.
