India, Nov. 4 -- Coaching in kabaddi is undergoing a transformation, with recently retired players stepping into coaching roles in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL). With the 12th season of the league concluding here last week (October 31), coaches say it has been the most competitive edition yet, with teams better prepared both technically and strategically.

The two teams in the Season 12 grand finale -Dabang Delhi KC and Puneri Paltan-were both guided by young coaches. Joginder Narwal, who captained Dabang Delhi KC to the PKL Season 8 title, has now led the team to another title as coach.

On the other side, Ajay Thakur, one of Indian kabaddi's biggest names and a 2014 Asian Games gold medallist, joined Puneri Paltan as assistant coach mid-...