Can Devank Overcome Naveen in the Upcoming Vizag Showdown?

New Delhi, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 is set to ignite excitement from the very first weekend as the reigning champions Haryana Steelers face off against Bengal Warriorz in Vizag on August 31. The season kicks off on August 29 in Vizag before moving to Jaipur, Chennai, and New Delhi for league matches until October 23.

The Thursday Instagram Live event, part of a weekly series leading up to the season, brought fans up close with two of Kabaddi’s shining stars: Naveen Kumar and Devank Dalal. What ensued was a mix of admiration, competition, and candid dialogue.

For Naveen, this match holds deep significance - it's his much-anticipated return home. “This is a heartfelt moment for me. I’ve always dreamed of representing Haryana, and the fans have longed for this day. Now that I’m back, I owe it to them to give my all,” remarked the player known as Naveen Express.

“We’re already champions, but defending our title is more challenging than winning it. We’re a young, fearless squad, and our sole aim is to make Haryana proud once more,” he stated.

As he eyes his matchup with Devank, Naveen stated emphatically, “If we can contain Devank, we secure victory. It’s as straightforward as that. However, I recognize he won't make it a walk in the park - and that’s what fuels my excitement.”

When questioned about whether fans should anticipate a more aggressive style from him this season, Naveen didn’t shy away. “Aggression is inherent to my gameplay. When I raid, I want the defenders to experience the pressure. Against Bengal, we will unleash that intensity right from the start,” he asserted.

On the other side, Devank Dalal, Bengal Warriorz’ record signing, spoke with the confidence of a player with nothing to prove - yet everything to achieve. “Last year transformed my career - 301 raid points, best raider, reaching the PKL Final. But I’m not stopping here. Records are meant to be surpassed, and I aim to push my limits,” Devank declared.

Regarding the pressure of being his team’s most expensive player to date, he shared, “People discuss the price tag, but for me, it’s a source of motivation. The franchise has placed its trust in me, and I intend to repay that confidence, raid after raid.”

When asked about facing his senior, Naveen, Devank’s demeanor shifted, “I hold Naveen bhai in high regard - he was my captain while with the Services and my mentor. However, on the mat, that respect morphs into rivalry. To be the best, you must conquer the best.”

He also cautioned the Steelers. “Naveen claims that stopping me is the key - but good luck trying to catch me. My kicks, my speed, my aggression... this season, I plan to challenge every defender in the league, starting with Haryana.

The showdown in Vizag will represent more than just two teams clashing - it’s the narrative of a homegrown hero safeguarding his legacy against a rising star pursuing greatness.