Ayan Lochab’s season of fire: From NYP to PKL’s most fearless raider

When Patna Pirates found themselves gasping for breathing time at 12th localize battle of midway through and through PKL flavor 12, few imagined that the three-time champions would go on to script one of the most remarkable comebacks in the league’s history. At the heart of that revival stood a young raider from Haryana — Ayan Lochab — who turned self-belief and consistency into a season-defining force.

With 316 raid points, Lochab not only finished as the highest raider of PKL 2025, but also joined an elite group of legends like Pardeep Narwal and Devank Dalal by recording six 20+ point games in a single season. His performances powered Patna to an eight-match winning streak — the longest ever in Pro Kabaddi history — taking the struggling side into the playoffs. Their fairytale run, however, ended in Eliminator 3 following a loss to the Telugu Titans.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, the 19-year-old opened up about his meteoric rise, Patna’s stunning turnaround, and the simple philosophy that drives him: “If my team needs the points, I have to get it — by hook or by crook.” Here are excerpts:

Ayan: The first season was very good because we reached the finals. This time I practiced a lot and worked on my raids, so I’m happy to have crossed 300 points.

Ayan: The fact is, there was no pressure from the coaches or management. Usually, that can happen in such situations. They just told us to stick to the plan, they said wins and losses are part of the game, but we should continue doing what we do. And then suddenly the defence started improving a lot, and we started winning.

Ayan: When the defence started improving, I just knew we could win every game from there.

Ayan: There isn’t any particular process. The thought is simple, if my team needs the points, I have to get them, by hook or by crook. Whatever plan we have, we discuss it during practice, but we try to keep the dressing room light on match days.

Ayan: It really feels great that I could do that for my team. I always try to keep my focus on the game during the season. Even when the coaches tell me I’m doing well, I don’t let that get into my head.

Ayan: The one against Pune, early in the season. That match gave me a lot of confidence.

Ayan: It felt really good that the fans kept backing us even when we weren’t winning. Their support gave us belief.

Ayan: I just want to perform even better next season and take the team to the final. And personally, I want to play for India and win a medal.

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