Pro Kabaddi League Season 11: Top Defenders at the Player Auction
Defense is often considered the backbone of any successful team in the Pro Kabaddi League. While raiders may steal the spotlight with their scoring prowess, it’s the defenders who provide the solid foundation necessary for a team’s success. With this in mind, all 12 franchises made significant investments in defenders during the Season 11 Player Auction, aiming to bolster their defensive lineups for the upcoming campaign.
Sunil Kumar | U Mumba | INR 1.015 crores
Sunil Kumar made history during the Season 11 Player Auction by becoming the most expensive Indian defender in PKL history. U Mumba secured his services for a whopping INR 1.015 crores, highlighting the value and experience that Kumar brings to the team. As a two-time PKL winner and eighth on the all-time leaderboard for most tackle points in league history, Kumar’s presence in the Mumboys’ defense is expected to be a game-changer.
Krishan | Telugu Titans | INR 70 lacs
Krishan emerged as one of the top defenders in the previous season, earning 78 tackle points and becoming Patna Pirates’ go-to man in defense. Telugu Titans recognized his talent and secured him for INR 70 lacs, aiming to strengthen their defensive lineup for the upcoming campaign. With Krishan’s impressive track record and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, he is poised to make a significant impact for the Titans.
Shubham Shinde | Patna Pirates | INR 70 lacs
Shubham Shinde showcased his defensive prowess while playing for Bengal Warriorz last season, earning 62 tackle points. His solid performance caught the attention of three-time champions Patna Pirates, who acquired him for INR 70 lacs at the auction. With an improved game and a total of 151 tackle points in PKL, Shinde is expected to lead the Pirates’ defense and contribute significantly to their success in Season 11.
Surjeet Singh | Jaipur Pink Panthers | INR 60 lacs
Surjeet Singh brings a wealth of experience and a formidable presence to the Jaipur Pink Panthers’ defense. As the only Indian player with over 400 tackle points in PKL history, Singh is a proven performer who can deliver in crucial moments. With 404 tackle points to his name and a knack for Super Tackles, Singh’s addition to the Panthers’ roster at INR 60 lacs is a strategic move that is expected to pay off in the upcoming season.
Fazel Atrachali | Bengal Warriorz | INR 50 lacs
Iranian defender Fazel Atrachali, who has captained PKL teams over 100 times, brings a wealth of experience to the Bengal Warriorz defense. With 486 tackle points to his name and a PKL title win with Patna Pirates in Season 4, Atrachali is a seasoned defender who knows how to deliver under pressure. His acquisition for INR 50 lacs presents a valuable opportunity for the Warriorz to strengthen their defensive lineup and benefit from Atrachali’s expertise.
As the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 approaches, the focus on defenders and their crucial role in a team’s success is more prominent than ever. With these top defenders in their ranks, teams are gearing up for an intense and competitive season, where solid defense will play a pivotal role in determining the ultimate champions.
Top Defenders to Watch Out for in Pro Kabaddi League Season 11
While raiders often steal the show in the Pro Kabaddi League with their flashy moves and high-scoring abilities, it is the defenders who truly hold the key to a team’s success. In Season 11, several top defenders were acquired by different franchises at the player auction, signaling a shift in focus towards building a robust defense. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout defenders to watch out for in the upcoming season:
Nitesh Kumar | UP Yoddha | INR 70 lacs
Nitesh Kumar, known for his agility and impeccable timing in tackles, has been a consistent performer in the PKL. With 275 tackle points to his name, Kumar has proven to be a reliable asset in defense. UP Yoddha managed to secure his services for INR 70 lacs, a testament to his value as a defender. As a key player in the Yoddha’s lineup, Kumar is expected to anchor the defense and thwart opposition raiders effectively.
Vishal Bhardwaj | Tamil Thalaivas | INR 60 lacs
Vishal Bhardwaj, renowned for his strong ankle holds and strategic tackles, is set to make a mark in Season 11 with the Tamil Thalaivas. With 263 tackle points in his PKL career, Bhardwaj brings a wealth of experience to the team’s defense. Secured for INR 60 lacs at the auction, Bhardwaj is expected to provide stability and leadership in the Thalaivas’ defensive setup, making him a player to watch out for in the upcoming matches.
Sumit | Haryana Steelers | INR 40 lacs
Sumit, a rising star in the world of kabaddi, caught the eye of Haryana Steelers with his impressive performances in the previous seasons. With an aggressive style of play and a knack for Super Tackles, Sumit adds a dynamic element to the Steelers’ defense. Acquired for INR 40 lacs, Sumit is poised to make a significant impact in Season 11 and establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the league.
Sandeep Dhull | Puneri Paltan | INR 30 lacs
Sandeep Dhull, known for his athleticism and agility on the mat, is a promising defender who has steadily climbed the ranks in the PKL. With 201 tackle points in his career, Dhull’s ability to outmaneuver raiders and execute precise tackles makes him a valuable asset for Puneri Paltan. Secured for INR 30 lacs, Dhull is expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the Paltan’s defense and contributing to their quest for glory in Season 11.
Ajay Thakur | Bengaluru Bulls | INR 20 lacs
Ajay Thakur, known for his versatility as an all-rounder, brings a unique blend of raiding and defensive skills to the Bengaluru Bulls. With 132 tackle points in his PKL career, Thakur’s ability to switch roles seamlessly makes him a valuable asset in crunch situations. Acquired for INR 20 lacs, Thakur is expected to provide the Bulls with a strategic advantage on the mat and contribute to their defensive resilience in the upcoming season.
As the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 unfolds, the spotlight on defenders is brighter than ever, with these top players set to redefine the standards of defensive play in the league. With their skills, experience, and determination, these defenders are ready to make their mark and lead their teams to victory in what promises to be an exhilarating season of kabaddi action.
