Kabaddi followers from Patna were in for a treat on Sunday as the VIVO Pro Kabaddi champions Patna Pirates held a victory rally through the city to greet fans and display their hat-trick trophy to the public.

The open-bus rally, which began from the airport at 12:30 pm, made its way through the busy streets of the state’s capital before the team addressed the media at the Gandhi Maidan and thanked them for their continued love and support in popularising the Indian sport of kabaddi. From there the team made its way to Raj Bhawan where they were felicitated by Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik for their recent exploits.

Governor Malik was ecstatic about the name and recognition brought to the state of Bihar by Patna Pirates. He congratulated each and every member of the Patna Pirates franchise who contributed towards the victory and hoped this event would serve to motivate sportspersons and artists from the state to reach similar heights in their field.

The Pirates became the first team to win three titles on the trot after they defeated debutants Gujarat Fortunegiants in the season 5 final and thus wrote their names in VIVO Pro Kabaddi history. Rajesh V. Shah, team owner of the Patna Pirates, was all praise for the work ethic displayed by all members of the team as well as coach Ram Mehar Singh.

“Our journey to championship had been scripted with indomitable character and unmatched talent of players who went out to perform in every match and gave their best,” said Shah. “Team coach Ram Mehar Singh worked hard and added new dimensions in the game making it exciting to millions of fans.”

Pirates captain Pardeep Narwal was the biggest star of the season scoring 369 points in the 26 matches he played and shattering many records along the way. Shah reserved special mention for the Dubki King and commended his efforts on the mat. “One of the big take away of the league was Pardeep Narwal, a talented youth in his 20 who has now become a household name. We are very pleased that our team has made a history by winning three successive seasons,” Shah concluded.