Karnal Kings Retain Rohit Nandal for KCL Season 2

Karnal Kings have retained another player for Season 2 of the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), adding defender Rohit Nandal to the group already secured for the new campaign. The decision builds on the earlier retentions of Akshit Dhull and Harsh Vedpal, and it strengthens a defensive unit that the Kings will rely on in a bigger league.

Rohit Nandal: A Committed Presence in Defence

Rohit Nandal was a regular member of the Karnal Kings defensive group in Season 1. Across five matches he made 22 tackle attempts and converted 10 of them, a success rate of 45.5 percent, for 10 tackle points. His season included one High Five performance, a game in which a defender takes a major share of the work on his own. He did not attempt a raid all season, so his entire contribution came from the defensive unit, which makes him a clear specialist in his role.

Strengthening the Defensive Group

Karnal Kings already retained Harsh Vedpal, who produced 23 tackle points for the team last season, and the addition of Rohit Nandal gives the Kings another defender who understands the franchise’s system. Retaining several defenders who played together gives a team a better chance of working as a coordinated chain, which matters in a sport where defensive timing decides close matches. It also leaves the franchise more flexible at the auction, as it can focus on strengthening other positions.

Continuity Under Ravinder Pahal

Rohit will continue to play under head coach Ravinder Pahal, who leads Karnal Kings in Season 2. With Akshit Dhull in the raiding unit and Harsh Vedpal and Rohit in defence, the Kings have kept a balanced core from last season. They also have talent that has reached the national stage, with Sunil Malik named in India’s Asian Games 2026 squad.

A Tougher Season Ahead

Season 2 will be more competitive, with ten franchises after the addition of Jhajjar Jaguars and Kurukshetra Knights. Karnal will face established sides including Rohtak Royals, Bhiwani Bulls, Gurugram Gurus, Sonipat Stars, Panipat Panthers, Faridabad Fighters, and Hisar Heroes. The Season 2 auction on October 17, 2026, live on YouTube, Waves OTT, and ZEE5, will show how the Kings add to their retained core.

What It Means for Kings Fans

For Karnal supporters, another retention brings added familiarity and stability. A defence that stays together is a good starting point for a stronger campaign.

Looking Ahead

As KCL Season 2 draws closer, fans can follow all announcements through the official KCL Blogs section. Stay tuned to the KCL website for further updates.