PKL 11: Coaches from Top Six Teams Celebrate Young Talent as Playoffs Approach

Pune, Dec 25 (NationPress) The excellence of emerging players is a true reflection of a sports league's vitality. As Season 11 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) approaches its climax with the playoffs, the outstanding performances of young talents have garnered significant praise from the coaches of the top six teams following the league stage. These coaches gathered on Wednesday to discuss their perspectives on the season.

With a week set to honor the sport of kabaddi in numerous ways, the six coaches—Manpreet Singh (Haryana Steelers), Joginder Narwal (Dabang Delhi K.C.), Jasveer Singh (UP Yoddhas), Narender Redhu (Patna Pirates), Gholamreza Mazandarani (U Mumba), and Sanjeev Baliyan (Jaipur Pink Panthers)—engaged in a detailed dialogue at the Panga Roundtable, covering various facets of PKL Season 11.

The Haryana Steelers, currently at the top of the table and through to the semifinals, are vying for their first title. Coach Manpreet Singh expressed his admiration for the standout player Mohammadreza Shadloui.

“The Haryana Steelers team resembles a family. The players feel like my younger brothers, and we will collaborate to ensure we leave no stone unturned in the semifinals. Qualifying directly for the semifinals serves as a great motivator for us, especially in a state like Haryana, known for its achievements in various sports, yet still chasing the elusive PKL title. We hope to bring it home,” he remarked.

Dabang Delhi K.C. has been one of the top teams this season, boasting a remarkable 15-match unbeaten streak that secured them the second spot on the points table. Coach Joginder Narwal, who led his team to the PKL title in Season 8, spoke about the synergy between his co-captains, Ashu Malik and Naveen Kumar.

“Having played alongside Ashu and Naveen in previous years, they have developed a strong bond. Their chemistry is evident on the mat, and the team operates like a cohesive family. As we head into the playoffs, everyone is fit and in top form,” he stated.

The UP Yoddhas, who had to re-strategize before the season commenced, have witnessed their young raiders and defensive line stepping up impressively. Coach Jasveer Singh noted, “Although we lost a couple of key players, the core of our team has remained intact and has worked diligently.”

When asked about his team’s ability to secure victories in tightly contested matches, he explained, “Winning in close matches is challenging and requires a habit that develops over time. Our training prepares the players to handle pressure effectively on match day.”

Three-time champions Patna Pirates’ coach Narender Redhu praised the dynamic duo of Devank and Ayan, who have thrived on the big stage.

“Before the commencement of PKL Season 11, we recognized that Devank and Ayan would be a formidable raiding pair. Their performances in other tournaments indicated their potential, and we are fortunate to have them on our team. We’ve provided them with the freedom to express their skills, and they have seized that opportunity,” he said.

U Mumba clinched a playoff spot with a stellar victory against the Bengal Warriorz in their final league match of the season. A standout feature for U Mumba this season has been the leadership of their young talents.

Reflecting on their journey, U Mumba coach Gholamreza Mazandarani said, “We are thrilled to have reached the playoffs. The young players have excelled, consistently aiming for new records and demonstrating exceptional energy. Players like Ajith Chauhan and Rohit Raghav are incredibly skilled, and their continued exposure to high-level competition in PKL will only enhance their abilities.”

After finishing sixth on the points table, the Jaipur Pink Panthers are aiming for their third title. Coach Sanjeev Baliyan emphasized that the mindset and preparation for the playoffs must differ from the league stage.

“The playoffs are an entirely different challenge, with no room for second chances as in the league stage. To reclaim the PKL title, the entire squad must perform well and support Arjun Deshwal. In the past, when Arjun faced difficulties, someone else has always stepped up, and it is crucial to maintain that momentum,” he concluded.