Get Ready for the Most Competitive Season of Pro Kabaddi Yet!
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is back, and its 11th edition promises to be the most thrilling season yet! With revamped squads, new format changes, and a focus on youth, this season is shaping up to be a real nail-biter.
A Fresh Start
The PKL 11 season kicks off on October 18, with a new three-legged format that will take the tournament to Hyderabad, Noida, and Pune. With 137 games spread over three months, fans are in for a treat. The squads have been refreshed, and the teams are raring to go.
Youth Takes Center Stage
The player auctions in August saw a major shift towards young players, with all 12 teams exceeding their New Young Player (NYP) quota. Veterans like Rahul Chaudhari were left unsold, while Pardeep Narwhal fetched a relatively modest ₹70 lakh. The focus on youth is clear, and teams are looking to build for the future.
Big Spenders
Despite the emphasis on youth, some big-money deals were struck. Tamil Thalaivas made Sachin Tanwar the most expensive signing at ₹2.15 Cr, followed closely by Guman Singh, who joined Gujarat Giants for ₹1.97 Cr. Haryana Steelers splurged ₹2.07 Cr on Iranian star Mohammedreza Shadloui Chiyaneh.
Defending Champions Puneri Paltan
Last season’s champions, Puneri Paltan, are looking strong again. Despite losing Shadloui, they have retained most of their championship team, including captain and league MVP Aslam Inamdar. With a well-oiled machine like theirs, it’s hard to look beyond them as favorites to defend their title.
Haryana Steelers: Dark Horses?
Haryana Steelers, last season’s runners-up, have shored up their defence with the addition of Shadloui. They also have a strong attack, led by Vinay and Shivan Patare. If they can find the right balance, they could go all the way.
New Contenders
Tamil Thalaivas, with their unique coaching setup and big-money signings, could spring a surprise. Bengal Warriorz, meanwhile, have retained their potent raiding unit and added Fazel Atrachali to their defence. Gujarat Giants have a youthful squad, but if they can gel quickly, they could cause an upset.
The Old Guard
Veterans like Pardeep Narwal and Pawan Sehrawat are fighting for relevance. Narwal has joined Bengaluru Bulls, where he’ll need to prove his fitness and form. Sehrawat, meanwhile, has opted to be listed as an all-rounder, recognizing that he needs to contribute more to his team’s cause.
What to Expect
PKL 11 promises to be a season of tight contests, with an emphasis on defence and athleticism. The league’s shift towards youth and all-rounders could lead to even more impressive feats of ingenuity on the mat. Get ready for a thrilling ride!
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