U Mumba is set to step onto the mat for Season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League in a brand-new jersey that pays homage to their unforgettable 2015 championship victory. Launched today in Mumbai, the special kit marks the 10-year anniversary of that iconic triumph, blending nostalgia with modern design. Staying true to the team’s signature orange-and-black identity, the jersey draws inspiration from the Season 2 title-winning kit, while incorporating fresh elements such as a nod to Mumbai’s Airport—a symbol of connection between the team’s glorious past and ambitious future. Complementing the tribute, an intensive 50-day pre-season camp with a sharp focus on mobility and conditioning has prepared U Mumba players to convert strength into speed and deliver maximum impact on match day as they gear up for their longest campaign yet.
That camp, led by strength and conditioning coach Pratiek Ninawe–a former international sprinter uniquely bringing sprint mechanics and explosive movement science into multiple sports–was built to turn raw strength into match-day impact. Players began with mobility and assessment work to fix individual gaps, before stepping up to strength drills that pushed them past the 110 kg squat mark, endurance sessions to build engine, and sprint work to sharpen agility and explosive power.
Sunil Kumar, Captain, U Mumba, said “ Although I wasn’t part of the 2015 campaign, that victory led by Anup Kumar is etched in kabaddi history and remains a huge source of inspiration for us. Wearing a jersey that pays tribute to that triumph reminds us of the standards U Mumba has always set. As captain, my focus is on carrying forward that legacy with this new group combining the experience of our seniors with the energy of our youngsters, and chasing our second PKL title this season.”
Team Owner, Ronnie Screwvala said, “The Season 2 championship was a breakthrough. It validated the commercial and cultural potential of kabaddi at a national scale. For us at U Mumba, it underlined the importance of building professional structures, investing in people and approaching sport with the same rigor as any other business. It was one of the most memorable runs in the League’s history and a decade later, that win still shapes our approach: sustainable growth, long-term value creation and leaving behind a legacy that goes beyond trophies.”
U Mumba has not only dominated the Pro Kabaddi League with record wins and three consecutive finals in its first seasons, but also nurtured homegrown talent that went on to represent India. Beyond results, the franchise has pioneered modern fitness and conditioning in kabaddi, setting new benchmarks in player development and performance.
Expressing his delight, Suhail Chandhok, CEO, U Mumba, said, “To be in the commentary box on that unforgettable night in 2015 when U Mumba were crowned champions was a truly special moment. To have life come full circle and now lead this franchise as CEO a decade later, makes this milestone even more meaningful. U Mumba’s story has always been defined by resilience, passion, grooming homegrown talent and the bond with our fans. But this is not just about honoring the past, it’s about preparing for what’s next. From advanced physical preparation to a squad that mixes proven leaders like Sunil Kumar with rising stars such as Ajit Chouhan, Rohit Raghav, Lokesh Ghosliya and Anil Jasta, Season 12 is a statement of intent. We’re ready to chase new milestones.”
A decade on from their iconic title victory, U Mumba enters Season 12 with a sharper edge, mixing emerging talent with proven names. Beyond chasing wins, the team is shaping an identity built on discipline, fitness, and long-term growth, aiming to stay ahead in a league that’s more competitive than ever.
