PKL: Haryana Steelers Showcase Assurance Ahead of Playoffs as Title Chase Begins

Pune, Dec 26 (NationPress) The superiority exhibited by Haryana Steelers in this season's Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has established the JSW Sports-owned team as the favourites for the title as they advance to the playoffs. With 16 victories out of 22 matches and a remarkable score difference of 112, the Steelers outperformed their rivals to finish at the top of the league stage, also being the first team to secure a playoff berth.

Under the guidance of head coach Manpreet Singh and captain Jaideep Dahiya, the team's defensive skills were showcased throughout a season where the Steelers emerged as one of the top defensive squads. The Steelers recorded 246 successful tackles, earning 265 team tackle points, the second-highest in the league, just behind the Tamil Thalaivas.

The addition of Mohammad Reza Shadloui, who played for the defending champions Puneri Paltan last season, turned out to be a brilliant strategy for Haryana, as the Iranian made an immediate impact in both defense and raiding, proving himself as a top-tier all-rounder.

Shadloui accumulated 76 total tackle points, ranking second in the league stage, achieving numerous orange sleeve exchanges. Throughout the season, the Steelers also forced a total of 28 All Outs. Meanwhile, Vinay and Shivam excelled in the attacking arena, placing in the top 10 raiders of the league stage.

There have also been some surprising contributors to the team. "Our key players have included Shadloui, Rahul Sethpal, Jaideep Dahiya, and Sanjay. Their synergy and collaboration have greatly influenced the team's success. The left-right combination of Vinay and Shivam Patare in the raiding department has also caught the opposition off guard,” said Manpreet.

Being the first team to qualify for the playoffs also allowed Haryana to assess their bench strength, with Manpreet commending the players for seizing their chances.

"We have effectively rotated players, and several, including Vishal Tate, Jaya Soorya, Naveen, and Sanskar Mishra, have maximized their opportunities. Sanjay has emerged as a surprising asset for us and has become a critical part of our squad. He integrated well with our defensive unit and proved his value. We will definitely see some of them in the knockout matches as well," he noted.

Meanwhile, captain Jaideep feels confident after leading his team to the playoffs with style. He shared insights about his communication strategies with the team and commended them for adhering to the plans laid out by himself and the coaching staff.

"I continuously talk to the players about whether we should attack from the left or right, based on the defenders we face. We have effectively rotated our raiders. With our defense, we quickly strategize based on whether we anticipate the opposition's raider will attempt a kick, touch, or bonus point. Off the mat, we keep discussing the significance of securing victories, which keeps us driven. All players pay attention to the strategies, and we stick to them," he explained.

However, Jaideep does not feel the stress of the knockout stage, understanding that the path to the title relies on the unit's performance.

"There is no pressure for the knockout matches. We are playing with a relaxed mindset. We will give our all and aim for victory. My role is to identify and address gaps as necessary. But we must function as a team to win the upcoming games. We lost the title last year, so we recognize how crucial the trophy is for us," he remarked.

Manpreet shared similar thoughts, emphasizing the significance of winning the title for Haryana. "This year's trophy is ours to claim. We have prepared the team with the trophy in mind. Haryana is the hub of Kabaddi, and many players emerge from this state. I want Haryana to lift the cup to inspire young talents to embrace the sport,” he concluded.

The Steelers are set to compete in the first semifinal on Friday at the Badminton Hall in Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune.