Can Bengal Warriorz Triumph Over Defending Champions Haryana Steelers in PKL 12 Opener?

Visakhapatnam, Aug 30 (NationPress) The Pro Kabaddi League's twelfth season has officially kicked off in Vizag, where the Bengal Warriorz, rejuvenated by new leadership, youthful zeal, and a solid legacy as one of the league’s pioneering franchises, are preparing for an exciting new chapter. Their first challenge is against the defending champs, the Haryana Steelers, this Sunday.

Owned by Capri Sports, the Bengal Warriorz clinched the championship title in 2019 and are now aiming to add another star to their badge by the end of this season.

This season's campaign will be spearheaded by head coach Naveen Kumar, a celebrated former player turned coach, bringing significant experience from his previous roles in the PKL and various national sports institutions. Renowned for his ability to nurture emerging talent and instill a competitive spirit, Naveen emphasizes a youth-centric approach with a vibrant team under his guidance.

Central to Bengal Warriorz’s reimagined strategy is star raider Devank Dalal, who was signed for an impressive Rs 2.205 crore, making him the most expensive Indian player in PKL this season. Last season, Devank amassed a remarkable 301 raid points; this time, he is tasked not only with scoring but also leading the team, having been appointed captain.

For the first time, the Bengal Warriorz have introduced a 'Defence Captain' role, now taken on by veteran defender Nitesh Kumar. Nitesh, who debuted in the PKL during Season 5, is the only defender in the tournament's history to achieve 100 tackle points in a single season, accomplished in Season 6. Over his PKL career, Nitesh has gathered 409 tackle points in 150 matches, including 31 Super Tackles and 28 High 5s, playing a pivotal role in mentoring the young Bengal Warriorz squad.

Having triumphed in both encounters against the Steelers last year, the Bengal Warriorz are bolstered with confidence as they head into their opening clash.

Captain Devank Dalal shared his thoughts prior to the crucial match, stating, “Facing the Haryana Steelers in our opening match presents a significant challenge, but it’s precisely the start we desire. Kicking off the season with intensity and strong performance will convey our intent, and as a team, we are prepared to give our all on the mat.”

Coach Naveen Kumar mirrored this sentiment, saying, “Launching the season effectively is vital, and I trust the players are driven to convert their rigorous preparation into results from the very first moment. A robust start will set the tone for the remainder of the campaign.”

“The Bengal Warriorz have been diligently training and doing everything necessary behind the scenes to prepare for the tournament. Season 12 of the PKL is an opportunity for the Bengal Warriorz to exhibit the team’s youthful vigor. The squad is highly motivated and eager to go, and we are confident that our hard work will be evident on the mat,” stated Apurv Gupta, Director – Contact Sports, Capri Sports.

This season, the league is structured into four segments, with matches taking place in Vizag from August 29 to September 11, followed by the Jaipur leg from September 12 to September 27, the Chennai leg from September 29 to October 12, and finally the Delhi leg from October 13 to October 23.