PKL Season 11: Ashu Malik Aspires to Lead Dabang Delhi KC to Glory Again
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Pune, Dec 8 (NationPress) Every great journey begins somewhere, be it on a cricket pitch, a football field, or a kabaddi mat. For Ashu Malik, his journey commenced on school playgrounds and local competitions, where a young boy's relentless spirit would eventually transform the expectations of his family, community, and the kabaddi universe.
“In the past, many senior players from my village worked in the railways, and they used to showcase their skills on the ground of my private school. Observing them sparked my interest in the game,” Ashu reflected during the ‘Rise of a Star’ video. His love for kabaddi began by watching local talents, studying their techniques, and gradually becoming enamored with the sport.
The journey was fraught with challenges. His family initially opposed his athletic dreams. “My parents urged me to concentrate on academics. For the first 3-4 years, they were not supportive. I often upset them by participating in tournaments,” he recollected.
Yet, Ashu's resolve remained steadfast. “I aim to lead Dabang Delhi K.C. to reclaim the PKL championship,” he stated with firm determination. This singular ambition became his motivating factor.
His pivotal moment arrived through personal sacrifice. “I weighed around 80 kg and managed to lose five kg,” he shares, emphasizing the discipline that characterized his journey.
Joining the Pro Kabaddi League marked a significant turning point. Initially apprehensive, he gradually adapted. “At first, I stayed silent for a few days, uncertain about how things operated,” he confessed. However, he soon became a vital player for the team, especially during tough matches.
When Naveen Kumar faced injury in PKL 10, Ashu's leadership became evident. “We ensured no one's spirit faltered. I told the team, 'If he isn’t playing, what’s the issue? We will win and compensate for his absence,'” he remarked. His philosophy was straightforward yet impactful - concentrate on victory, uplift teammates, and persist unwaveringly.
Season ten turned out to be his highlight. He distinguished himself as the top raider, dispelling all skepticism and demonstrating that diligence indeed pays off, propelling his team to the semi-finals with an impressive tally of 276 points throughout the season. His form has persisted into season 11, amassing 174 points thus far.
His 13 Super 10s have kept Dabang Delhi K.C. competitive in the league standings, and he has set his sights on the season’s goal. “My sole focus during practice is to make Delhi the champions,” he asserts.
