PNN
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], September 9: The stage was set, the bidding wars were intense, and the Volleyball Champions League (VCL) 2026 Auction witnessed Haryana Hurricanes emerge as one of the franchises making a strong statement with its calculated and ambitious approach.
At the heart of Haryana Hurricanes’ auction strategy was team owner Naveen Rathi, whose leadership, vision and understanding of the game shaped a squad-building approach focused on quality, balance and proven potential.
The biggest highlight of the Hurricanes’ auction campaign came with the signing of Chirag Yadav for ₹27 lakh — the highest bid of the season. The prominent outside hitter has been in the spotlight following his impressive performances for India at the recent AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup, making his acquisition a major statement of intent from the Haryana franchise.
Securing a player of Chirag Yadav’s calibre through the highest bid of the auction reflects the confidence Haryana Hurricanes have placed in his ability to make a difference at the VCL level. His recent performances on the international stage have further strengthened expectations around his role in the team.
The Hurricanes also secured Saqlain Tariq as their Icon Player, adding experience, leadership and quality to the core of the squad. The combination of an established icon in Saqlain and high-impact talent such as Chirag gives Haryana Hurricanes a strong foundation as they prepare for the league.
But the franchise’s auction story was not built around just two names. Under Naveen Rathi’s leadership, Haryana Hurricanes followed a clear and purposeful strategy, making several smart acquisitions to create a squad capable of competing across different situations. Rather than simply chasing big names, the franchise focused on assembling the right mix of talent, experience, versatility and hunger to perform.
Naveen Rathi’s approach reflects a larger vision for Haryana Hurricanes — to build a team that represents the fighting spirit of Haryana and gives talented volleyball players the platform to showcase themselves at one of India’s biggest volleyball stages.
With the auction now complete, the focus shifts from the bidding table to the court. The responsibility will now be on the players to turn the franchise’s strategy into performances, while Naveen Rathi’s continued guidance and support will remain an important pillar for the team.
With Chirag Yadav’s ₹27-lakh record bid, Saqlain Tariq leading the side as Icon Player, and a carefully assembled squad, Haryana Hurricanes have made their intentions clear.
They are not here simply to participate in VCL 2026. They are here to compete, to challenge and to make Haryana proud.
For more details visit -: https://www.instagram.com/haryanahurricanesofficial/
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Naveen Rathi’s Masterstroke at VCL Auction: Haryana Hurricanes Sign Chirag Yadav for ₹27 Lakh
