The television screen flickered with suspense as a dramatic bidding war unfolded at the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Player Auction. In his modest village home, 23-year-old Yogesh Dahiya sat glued to the screen, heart pounding with each rising bid. From Bengaluru Bulls to Patna Pirates and Bengal Warriors, three franchises vied for his signature, and Dahiya watched the entire spectacle unfold live, unsure where his fate would land.

“I was watching the player auction live on TV. I could see Bengaluru Bulls bidding, then Patna Pirates, then Bengal Warriorz. I was watching all this unfold,” Dahiya recalled.

When the final bid closed at a staggering Rs 1.125 crore by Bengaluru Bulls, Dahiya not only became the most expensive Indian defender in PKL auction history, but also a symbol of resilience and reward. Back in his village, his family erupted in celebration. “My family was very happy. Mom and dad were so happy that their child had become so valuable. They felt proud that I had achieved this recognition,” he said.